Classic No Bake Preacher Cookies: Easy Peanut Butter Chocolate Treat
Fudgy, chewy, and ready in minutes—these classic Appalachian No Bake Preacher Cookies marry cocoa, peanut butter, and quick oats. Perfect for last‑minute guests, with an optional silky milk‑chocolate drizzle for extra wow.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Large heat-proof mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Wax paper or parchment-lined tray
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Microwave-safe Bowl
- Microwave
Ingredients
Cookies
- 3 cups quick-cooking oats "1-minute" oats work best for texture
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cut into cubes for even melting
- 1/8 tsp salt balances the sweetness
- 1/2 cup milk whole milk or 2% preferred
- 1 tsp vanilla extract adds aromatic depth
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter commercial brands set best
Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter for shine
Instructions
- Prepare your station: Measure oats into a large heat‑proof bowl. Line a counter with wax or parchment paper for dropping cookies later.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a heavy saucepan combine sugar, butter, salt, and milk. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium‑high heat. Boil exactly 1 minute, stirring. Remove from heat.
- Emulsify the flavors: Immediately stir in vanilla and peanut butter until glossy and smooth.
- Combine with oats: Pour the hot mixture over oats and stir until every flake is coated.
- Shape: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop mounds onto prepared paper. Gently press to flatten if desired.
- Chocolate drizzle (optional): Melt chocolate chips and butter in a microwave‑safe bowl in 20‑second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle over cookies.
- Set and serve: Let stand at room temperature until firm, 20–30 minutes, then enjoy.
Notes
For best texture, time the boil precisely to 1 minute after reaching a full rolling boil. Too short = soft; too long = crumbly. Humid kitchens may require a minute or two longer to set.