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No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

These no bake oatmeal cookies are a quick, no-heat treat made with pantry staples like oats, cocoa, and butter. They come together in one bowl, resulting in chewy, chocolatey bites with a glossy surface and satisfying texture. Perfect for nostalgic snacking whenever a sweet craving hits.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter preferably at room temperature
  • 2 cups brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 cups rolled oats lightly toasted for extra flavor
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder natural or Dutch-processed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large mixing spoon
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Start by lining your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later.
  2. Combine the butter, brown sugar, and milk in a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly as the mixture begins to melt and come to a gentle boil.
  3. Once the mixture reaches a full, bubbling boil, let it cook for exactly 1 minute while stirring gently. This helps dissolve the sugar evenly and activates the flavors.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are well coated and the mixture is thick and glossy.
  5. If you're adding chopped nuts or dried fruits, fold them in now for extra texture and flavor.
  6. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they will spread slightly.
  7. Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, until they firm up with a shiny, chewy surface. For faster setting, place the tray in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.
  8. Once the cookies are firm and glossy, gently peel them off the parchment paper and transfer to a plate or container.
  9. Enjoy these chewy, chocolatey bites immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—just thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before serving.

Notes

For an extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies once set. Feel free to experiment with add-ins like shredded coconut or different nuts for variation.