Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy cookie packed with chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and a luxurious chocolate-peanut butter coating—all without turning on the oven. No-Bake Preacher Cookies are a beloved classic that brings back memories of home kitchens and comforting treats made in minutes. Perfect for busy days, these cookies come together effortlessly and deliver deep, indulgent flavor in every bite.

The story behind the name “Preacher Cookies” is just as heartwarming. Traditionally, these cookies were whipped up quickly when a preacher made an unexpected visit—fast to prepare and always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re craving a quick dessert, looking for an easy no-bake idea, or need a sweet snack for guests, these cookies are the answer. Their texture is addictive, with the perfect combo of creamy, crunchy, and chewy.

Ingredients for No-Bake Preacher Cookies

2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups quick-cooking oats
½ cup chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans work great)
Pinch of salt

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper. This step is essential because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Measure all your ingredients ahead of time—once the mixture starts cooking, things move fast!

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Once everything is combined, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Let it boil for 1 minute—this is key to getting the right cookie texture. Too little boiling time and your cookies will be gooey; too much and they’ll dry out.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture

Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the peanut butter is completely melted and everything is smooth. Then, fold in the oats and chopped nuts (if using) until fully coated and combined.

Step 4: Scoop and Set

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. You can make them as small or large as you like—just try to work fast before the mixture begins to firm up.

Step 5: Let Them Cool

Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until fully set. If you’re in a hurry, pop the trays in the fridge for quicker setting.

Storage Instructions

No-Bake Preacher Cookies store exceptionally well, making them perfect for prepping ahead or saving leftovers. Once the cookies are fully set:

Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Store in a cool, dry place.
Refrigerated: For a firmer texture and extended freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in layers separated by parchment paper in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per Cookie – Based on 24 servings)

Calories: ~160 kcal
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sodium: 50mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are they called Preacher Cookies?

They got their name from being a quick treat homemakers could whip up when the preacher made a surprise visit—fast, reliable, and made with pantry staples.

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

Yes, but the texture will be chewier and slightly less cohesive. For best results, stick with quick oats.

3. Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute plant-based butter and use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy milk.

4. How long do these cookies take to set?

At room temperature, they typically set in 30–60 minutes. You can speed this up by placing them in the fridge.

5. Can I skip the peanut butter?

Yes, but it affects both texture and flavor. Try sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute.

6. Why didn’t my cookies harden?

This usually happens if the mixture didn’t boil long enough. Make sure it hits a full rolling boil and let it go for a full 60 seconds.

7. Can kids help make these?

Definitely! It’s a fun recipe for kids—just be careful with the hot sugar mixture. They can help with measuring, stirring (under supervision), and scooping.

8. Are these gluten-free?

They can be! Just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination is common.

No-Bake Preacher Cookies

Author: Nora Sinclair
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something chocolaty, chewy, and insanely easy to make? No-Bake Preacher Cookies are your new go-to treat. These nostalgic favorites are a brilliant mix of cocoa, oats, peanut butter, and sweet buttery goodness—all made in one pot, no oven required. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, an easy recipe for dessert, or a healthy-ish snack to satisfy late-night cravings, these cookies are perfect. With a rich texture, deep flavor, and a no-fuss method, they hit all the marks for effortless food ideas.

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 cups quick-cooking oats

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir over medium heat until fully melted.
Bring mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Fold in oats and chopped nuts until fully coated.
Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared sheets. Work quickly.
Let cookies cool and set for 30–60 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate to speed it up.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: No-Bake Dessert