No Bake Preacher Cookies

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I still remember the first time I made No Bake Preacher Cookies—mostly because I couldn’t believe how easy they were, and how quickly they disappeared. These classic treats, often whipped up in a hurry when unexpected guests (like the preacher!) arrived, combine pantry staples into rich, chocolatey, oat-packed bites of nostalgia. I’ve made these for bake sales, late-night cravings, and last-minute dessert tables, and every time, they hit the sweet spot.

There’s something so comforting about a cookie that doesn’t need an oven. You simply stir everything together, scoop them onto wax paper, and let time do the rest. They’re chewy, fudgy, slightly nutty depending on your twist, and almost too simple to mess up. If you’ve never made them before, you’re about to fall in love with a recipe that’s as forgiving as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Preacher Cookies Recipe

This recipe is ideal for busy bakers or beginner cooks. It’s completely egg-free, no need to preheat anything, and comes together in under 20 minutes. You only need one saucepan, which means minimal cleanup. The mix of cocoa, oats, and peanut butter creates a texture and flavor that’s satisfyingly rich, chewy, and just the right amount of sweet.

Kids can help, guests will rave, and you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours.

What Kind of Oats Should I Use?

Rolled oats work best for No Bake Preacher Cookies. They provide that hearty, chewy bite without becoming too soft or mushy. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but you’ll lose a bit of that satisfying texture. Avoid steel-cut oats—they’re too tough and won’t soften properly in the short setting time.

Options for Substitutions

• Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives if you’re avoiding peanuts.
• Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use plant-based milk.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can work, but it may slightly change the texture.
• Add-Ins: Toss in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a few mini chocolate chips for a flavor twist.

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Ingredients for This No Bake Preacher Cookies Recipe

• Unsalted Butter – Acts as the base fat that binds and gives the cookies their rich texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture and helps create that fudge-like finish.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and helps dissolve the sugar for smooth consistency.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Gives the cookies their deep, chocolatey flavor.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Provides nutty richness and helps firm the cookies as they set.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warmth and sweetness.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate notes.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – The chewy body of the cookie, adding texture and structure.

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Step 1: Prepare Your Setup

Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. This is where you’ll drop your cookies to cool and set. It’s best to have this ready before the cooking process begins because things move fast once the mixture is hot.

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Step 2: Melt and Boil the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir constantly over medium heat until everything is melted and smooth. Once the mixture starts to boil, allow it to boil for a full 1 to 1.5 minutes—this helps it set properly later. Be precise: too little time and the cookies won’t firm up; too much, and they might turn crumbly.

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Step 3: Stir in Peanut Butter and Vanilla

Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. The residual heat will melt the peanut butter into the chocolate mixture.

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Step 4: Add the Oats

Pour in the oats and stir until every flake is coated with the chocolate mixture. The oats should be fully mixed, but don’t over-stir or it can lead to dry cookies.

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Step 5: Scoop and Set

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes or until firm. If you’re in a hurry, pop them into the fridge for 15 minutes to speed up the setting process.

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Step 6: Serve and Store

Once they’re set, the cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week, or longer if refrigerated.

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How Long to Prepare No Bake Preacher Cookies

Making these cookies is a breeze, especially when time is tight. In total, you’re looking at about 15 minutes of active prep and 20–30 minutes of cooling time, depending on room temperature.

Prep and Cook Time: The hands-on time involves melting the ingredients, boiling the mixture, and stirring everything together. It takes about 10–12 minutes total.

Cooling Time: After scooping them onto the sheet, let them rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. If your kitchen is warm or humid, it might take a bit longer. You can also refrigerate them to speed up the process.

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Tips for Perfect No Bake Preacher Cookies

• Boil Exactly 1 Minute: Set a timer. Undercooking leads to sticky cookies, overcooking makes them dry and crumbly.
• Use Quality Cocoa: A good-quality cocoa powder makes a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on the Oats: Rolled oats give the cookies their chewy texture—don’t substitute steel-cut.
• Work Quickly: Once the mixture is ready, it sets fast. Have everything prepped before starting.
• Cool on Wax Paper: It’s the easiest surface for removing set cookies without sticking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overboiling: This will dry the mixture and make the cookies grainy.
• Using Quick Oats: They tend to absorb more moisture and can make the texture soggy.
• Skipping Salt: Even a small pinch enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Adding Oats Too Soon: Wait until the peanut butter and vanilla are fully incorporated.
• Not Stirring Enough: Unevenly mixed oats can lead to clumps and soft spots.

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What to Serve With No Bake Preacher Cookies?

1. A Glass of Cold Milk

Classic pairing that complements the richness and brings balance.

2. Fresh Berries

A tart, juicy contrast that cuts through the sweetness.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Turn your cookies into a quick dessert sandwich or crumble them on top.

4. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with chocolate and peanut butter.

5. Yogurt Parfait

Crumble a cookie over a yogurt and fruit parfait for added crunch.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Refrigerator: If you want a firmer texture or live in a warm climate, keep them chilled. They’ll last for about 2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezer: No Bake Preacher Cookies freeze well! Flash freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before eating.

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Estimated Nutrition (per cookie, approx.)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Cholesterol: 10mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if my cookies don’t set?

Try refrigerating them for 30 minutes. If they’re still soft, you may not have boiled the mixture long enough.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter works well and gives a slightly different nutty flavor.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, then yes, they are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure you don’t overcrowd your pot when boiling and work quickly during the scooping process.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Not necessarily, but chilling can help them firm up faster and last longer.

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Conclusion

No Bake Preacher Cookies are the perfect solution when you need a quick, satisfying dessert without the fuss. With pantry staples, no oven required, and minimal cleanup, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, surprise visitors, or just indulging in a bit of nostalgic sweetness. Whether you’re new to these cookies or making them for the hundredth time, they’re a guaranteed hit every single batch.

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