Description
These no-bake caramel cookies are an easy and delicious treat combining rich caramel, creamy peanut butter, and hearty quick oats. Perfect for when you want a quick dessert without turning on the oven, these cookies offer a delightful chewy texture with optional chocolate chips and nuts for added flavor and crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-Ins
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
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: Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar to the melted butter. Pour in 1/2 cup of milk and stir continuously until sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Boil the Mixture: Allow the mixture to boil for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to develop a rich caramel flavor. Then remove it from heat.
- Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the hot caramel mixture to enhance flavor.
- Add Quick Oats: Gradually add 3 cups of quick oats, stirring until the oats are well-coated with the caramel mixture.
- Incorporate Peanut Butter: Stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until fully combined and the mixture thickens and becomes sticky.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: If using, fold in 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts to add extra texture and flavor.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Scoop the Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Flatten the Cookies: Gently press each scoop with the back of a fork or your fingers to flatten slightly.
- Chill the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour until cookies firm up.
- Check for Firmness: Ensure the cookies are set but remain slightly soft in the center; chill longer if needed.
- Transfer to a Plate: Once firm, move the cookies to a serving plate. They can be enjoyed immediately or after a few hours to let flavors meld.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute half of the milk with cream for a richer caramel.
- Use quick oats for the best texture; instant oats may make the cookies too soft.
- Adjust the amount of peanut butter based on desired stickiness and flavor intensity.
- Refrigerate the cookies until firm to ensure they hold their shape.
- Optional mix-ins like chocolate chips and nuts add texture but can be omitted for a simpler cookie.
