Name: No-Bake Preacher Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups quick oats; Pinch of salt (optional)

A quick and comforting treat, No-Bake Preacher Cookies blend rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats into a chewy, nostalgic bite. These classic cookies come together in just minutes—no oven required—making them a go-to for last-minute guests, sweet cravings, or lazy-day desserts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter

½ cup milk

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ cup creamy peanut butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 cups quick oats

Pinch of salt (optional)

Directions

I start by combining sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder in a medium saucepan.

I place the pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a full boil.

Once boiling, I let it continue for exactly 1 minute without stirring.

I remove it from the heat and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Then, I fold in the quick oats and optional salt until everything is well mixed.

Using a spoon, I drop mounds of the mixture onto parchment or wax paper.

I let the cookies cool at room temperature for 20–30 minutes until they’re set and firm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Calories per cookie: approximately 210 kcal

Variations

I sometimes add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra texture. For a richer chocolate flavor, I’ll use dark cocoa powder. Swapping the peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter also works great if I want a nut-free or different taste. And for a bit of crunch, I occasionally mix in crispy rice cereal with the oats.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well—I just let them thaw for a few minutes before serving. These cookies don’t need reheating but can be softened slightly in the microwave for about 5 seconds if desired.

FAQs

What if my cookies don’t set properly?

If the cookies don’t firm up, it’s likely because the mixture didn’t boil long enough. Boiling for a full 60 seconds is key to getting the right texture.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, but the texture will be chewier and chunkier. I prefer quick oats for a smoother bite, but both types work.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

I don’t recommend it, since the sugar affects the texture and helps the cookies set. However, reducing by ¼ cup may still work without changing consistency too much.

Is there a way to make these dairy-free?

Absolutely. I use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure the oats are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

No-Bake Preacher Cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia, flavor, and convenience. With simple ingredients and a short prep time, I always keep this recipe in my back pocket for quick desserts and unexpected cravings. Whether I’m making them for family or just myself, they’re always a satisfying, no-fuss favorite.

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