Description
These No-Bake Caramel Cookies are a deliciously easy treat featuring a blend of caramel, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate chips, all mixed with quick oats. Perfect for a sweet snack without the need for baking!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups of quick oats
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally until fully melted.
- Add Sugars and Milk: Stir in 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, followed by 1/2 cup of milk. Mix until the sugars are dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Boil for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly to develop a rich caramel flavor.
- Remove from Heat: After boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a minute.
- Add Vanilla and Peanut Butter: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until well combined and smooth.
- Add Oats: Fold in 3 cups of quick oats, ensuring they are well coated with the caramel mixture.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir until evenly distributed.
- Optional Nuts: If desired, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans).
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop the Mixture: Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Flatten the Cookies: Gently flatten each cookie to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Chill in the Refrigerator: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up the cookies.
- Check for Firmness: After chilling, check if the cookies are firm. If still soft, chill for an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove from the Fridge: Once set, take the cookies out of the refrigerator.
- Transfer to a Plate: Carefully transfer the cookies to a serving plate. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Enjoy: Indulge in the delicious combination of caramel, oats, and chocolate!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts.
- You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
- These cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes