No Bake Preacher Cookies, also known as no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies, are a quick and easy treat that doesn’t require an oven. These cookies combine the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats to create a delightful and satisfying snack. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or when you want to avoid turning on the oven, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this simple recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (if you’re using unsalted butter)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Measure and Set Aside:
- Measure out all the ingredients and have them ready before you start, as the process moves quickly.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mixture
- Combine Sugar, Milk, Butter, and Cocoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, and 4 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Heat the Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Bring to a Boil:
- Once the mixture comes to a rolling boil, let it boil for 1 minute without stirring. This step is crucial to ensure the cookies set properly.
Step 3: Combine with Remaining Ingredients
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if using. Stir until the peanut butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Oats:
- Add 3 cups of quick-cooking oats to the mixture and stir until the oats are fully coated with the chocolate mixture.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
- Drop the Cookies:
- Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Aim to create evenly sized mounds.
- Shape the Cookies:
- If desired, gently press down on the mounds to flatten them slightly and shape them into cookies.
Step 5: Let the Cookies Set
- Cool and Set:
- Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cookies are set, they are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them immediately or store them for later.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Boiling Time: Make sure to boil the chocolate mixture for exactly 1 minute. Boiling for too long can make the cookies crumbly, while not boiling long enough can make them too soft.
- Oats: Use quick-cooking oats for the best texture. Old-fashioned oats can be used, but the cookies will have a chewier texture.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best, but you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cookies.
Variations
Nutty Preacher Cookies
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the mixture for extra crunch.
Coconut Preacher Cookies
- Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut along with the oats for a tropical twist.
Double Chocolate Preacher Cookies
- Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the mixture after removing it from the heat for extra chocolatey goodness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies without peanut butter? A: Yes, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or another nut/seed butter of your choice.
Q: How do I store leftover cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies? A: Yes, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use a sugar substitute? A: You can try using a sugar substitute like granulated stevia or monk fruit sweetener. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Q: What can I serve with these cookies? A: These cookies pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of ice cream.
No Bake Preacher Cookies are a quick and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these cookies are easy to make and always delightful. Enjoy making and sharing these no-bake treats with your family and friends!