If you have a sweet tooth and crave a comforting, old-fashioned treat, you will absolutely adore this No Bake Cookies — Just Like Grandma’s! Recipe. These delightful cookies are a perfect combination of rich cocoa, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats, all coming together without the need to heat up your oven. They are quick to prepare, wonderfully chewy, and evoke that nostalgic homemade charm that only grandma’s kitchen can bring. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a simple, scrumptious recipe to delight your family, these no bake cookies are exactly what you need to lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items to make these classic cookies. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a crucial role, from delivering creamy texture to imparting deep chocolate flavor and adding wholesome bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts smoothly to blend flavors and create that luscious base.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect cookie consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the chocolate and peanut butter.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives these cookies their rich, chocolatey heart.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle warmth that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or nut-free spread): Brings creaminess and a touch of salty balance to the sweetness.
- 3 cups quick oats: Provides that chewy texture and hearty bite everyone loves.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
How to Make No Bake Cookies — Just Like Grandma’s! Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the milk, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder. Bring this blend to a gentle boil, making sure to stir occasionally. Just 1 to 2 minutes at a boil is ideal—this brief cook time ensures the sugar dissolves perfectly and the flavors meld without burning.
Step 2: Add Peanut Butter & Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. The warmth will help the peanut butter melt into the mixture, creating a glossy, creamy texture that’s just right. This step is essential for that rich, old-fashioned flavor that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen.
Step 3: Mix in Oats
Next, stir in the quick oats along with a pinch of salt. Make sure every oat is fully coated with the velvety chocolate-peanut butter mixture. You’ll notice the dough thickens and becomes slightly sticky—this texture is exactly what makes these cookies so chewy and delightful.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Using the back of the spoon, gently flatten each mound to your preferred thickness. This handmade touch gives them that rustic, homespun look.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour, or until firm. If you’re in a hurry, pop the tray in the refrigerator for a quicker set. Once they’re firm, these no bake cookies are ready to be enjoyed—soft, chewy, and full of nostalgic flavor.
How to Serve No Bake Cookies — Just Like Grandma’s! Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top just after forming the cookies for a delightful contrast that enhances their chocolatey richness. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar can create an attractive, snowy appearance that feels extra special when serving guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair amazingly with a cold glass of milk, naturally, but also consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries. Their comforting sweetness balances perfectly with creamy or fresh accompaniments, making snack time feel like a cozy celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting display at your next gathering, arrange the cookies on a vintage cake stand or decorate a platter with colorful napkins and fresh mint leaves. Wrapping individual cookies in parchment with ribbons also makes a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your no bake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keeping them sealed well helps maintain their chewy texture and keeps them from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months by placing them in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy that fresh-baked feel.
Reheating
Because these are no bake, reheating isn’t necessary; however, if you prefer them a bit softer, quickly microwaving one for 10–15 seconds can bring back a fresh, warm softness. Just be careful to avoid overheating, which can make them oily.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Absolutely! Using old-fashioned oats will give your cookies a chewier, heartier texture. Just keep in mind the cookies might be a bit firmer and chunkier compared to the quick oats version.
Is there a nut-free alternative for peanut butter?
Yes! You can substitute peanut butter with seed butters like sunflower or soy nut butter to keep the recipe nut-free without sacrificing that creamy richness.
Why do my cookies turn out hard?
Cooking the sugar mixture for too long or at too high a heat can cause the cookies to set too hard. Stick closely to the 1-2 minute boil and remove promptly from heat to ensure a soft, chewy bite.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or coconut?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even mini chocolate chips can be stirred into the oat mixture for extra texture and flavor variations that are sure to delight.
How do I know when the cookies are set enough to eat?
Cookies are ready when they’ve cooled and firmed up, usually 30 minutes to an hour at room temperature or faster in the fridge. They should feel solid but still tender to the touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making and sharing the No Bake Cookies — Just Like Grandma’s! Recipe. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a little bite of nostalgia that brings joy to any day. Easy, quick, and utterly delicious, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try, and watch it magically transform ordinary moments into sweet memories!
Print
No Bake Cookies — Just Like Grandma’s! Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No Bake Cookies are a nostalgic treat, reminiscent of Grandma’s classic recipe. Rich with cocoa and peanut butter, combined with quick oats for a chewy texture, these cookies come together quickly without any baking required. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they set into deliciously fudgy bites with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups quick oats
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or nut-free spread)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Peanut Butter & Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix in Oats: Add the quick oats and a pinch of salt to the chocolate mixture. Stir thoroughly until the oats are fully coated and the dough becomes thick and slightly sticky.
- Form the Cookies: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each slightly with the back of the spoon to shape the cookies.
- Let Them Set: Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour until they firm up. Alternatively, place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.
- Serve: Once set, the cookies are ready to be enjoyed as a delicious, no-bake treat.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter or a nut-free spread if preferred.
- Quick oats are best for texture, but old-fashioned oats can be substituted for a chewier cookie.
- Refrigerate cookies if you want them to set faster or prefer a firmer texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
