There’s nothing that says “It’s holiday time!” more than a day spent making cookies, right? But if you’re feeling short on time this year, try these no-bake cookies that only take 20 minutes to make. They melt in your mouth and are perfect for munching on while unwrapping your presents, sipping on hot cocoa (or eggnog), or finishing a four-course holiday meal.
I used to make them when I was growing up with my then next-door neighbor and still best friend, Kara, and her mom, Dana. We would whip up a couple batches while listening to winter music and Christmas carols and decorating their beautiful Christmas tree. These cookies were something I looked forward to every year and, unlike most of the things I used to look forward to as a kid, these are just as good as I remember them.
With the ingredients below, you’ll have enough for 25 cookies total.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup baking cocoa
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 1 stick of butter or margarine
- 3 cups oatmeal
- 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Start Mixing
You’ll need a large pot, so that the ingredients are easy to mix around. Add the sugar, cocoa, milk, and one stick of butter or margarine and start mixing. (I usually either heat the butter in a pan on the stovetop for a moment or microwave it for 20 seconds.) Once the ingredients are combined, bring them to a quick boil for one minute, then quickly remove the pot from the hot stovetop.
2. Add Your Remaining Ingredients
Next, add the peanut butter and blend well with a mixing spoon. (This will be easier than it sounds since the chocolate batter will still be hot.) Then, drop in the oatmeal and vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Drop it Like it’s Hot
With a baking tray lined in tin foil, use a tablespoon to scoop and make 25 generous heapings. Once you have them laid out on the baking sheet, stow them safely away from any pets (or hungry family members) and give them at least 30 minutes to dry. Once your cookies start taking solid form, they’re ready to eat!
Don’t forget to save enough to share with your colleagues, friends, and family. They will love you even more for it!
Photo courtesy of Naomi Garnice.
