Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the oats and salt. Set it aside.
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together the butter, granulated sugar, milk, and cocoa powder.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil for about a minute while stirring constantly.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and mix in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oats, stirring until everything is fully incorporated.
- Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the lined sheet.
- Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for about an hour until they are set.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in the fridge to maintain their texture.
Best ways to enjoy it
These no-bake cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate your serving game! Consider pairing them with a tall glass of cold milk or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For extra flair, place a few cookies in a small gift box tied with a ribbon for a sweet homemade gift. You might also enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream on those warm days for a decadent dessert.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your cookies tasty and fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll stick around that long! If you prefer, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are laid out flat on a baking sheet to freeze, and once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure that when you’re boiling the butter and sugar mixture, you stir constantly to prevent burning.
- For a little extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips to the oats before mixing them with the chocolate-peanut butter combination.
- If you’d like a lower sugar option, you can experiment with using a sugar substitute suitable for baking, although this may alter the flavor slightly.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swapping out peanut butter for a different nut butter can yield delicious results. Try adding in a pinch of sea salt for a salted treat or mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or even cayenne pepper for a kick!
FAQs
How long do these cookies take to set?
These no-bake cookies typically take about 1 hour to set at room temperature. If you want to speed up the process, you can place them in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes instead.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the quick-cook oats for certified gluten-free oats to enjoy this tasty treat without gluten.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep them fresh, store your cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be enjoyed for up to one week, but good luck keeping them around that long!
Enjoy your baking (or no-baking) adventure! These cookies are sure to satisfy any chocolate and peanut butter cravings that come your way.
