No-Bake Preacher Cookies: Quick, Easy & Irresistible!

If you’re looking for a super simple, no-fuss cookie recipe, these No-Bake Preacher Cookies are perfect! Made with oats, peanut butter, and chocolate, they come together in minutes with zero baking required!

These classic Southern no-bake cookies were often made when a preacher stopped by unexpectedly—hence the name. They’re soft, chewy, rich, and deliciously sweet, making them perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Cookies

✔ No Oven Needed – Quick and easy to make!
✔ Rich, Chocolatey, & Nutty – A deliciously chewy texture.
✔ Simple Ingredients – Most are pantry staples.
✔ Perfect for Gifting & Holidays – A favorite for all ages!
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days!

The Best No-Bake Preacher Cookies Recipe

This foolproof, classic recipe is perfect for busy days and sweet cravings!

Ingredients (Makes 24 cookies)

3 cups quick-cooking oats, uncooked
2 cups sugar
½ cup milk
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
1 stick + 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup chocolate chips (for extra richness)
½ cup shredded coconut (for a tropical twist)
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.

2. Melt Butter & Sugar

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add sugar, milk, and cocoa powder, stirring until combined.
Bring to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute (this helps the cookies set).

3. Add Peanut Butter & Oats

Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Mix in quick oats (and optional add-ins if using).

4. Shape the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.

5. Let Them Set

Let cookies cool at room temperature for 30-40 minutes until firm.
For faster setting, refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Tips for the Best No-Bake Cookies

✅ Boil the mixture for exactly 1 minute – Too long makes them dry, too short makes them sticky.
✅ Use quick oats – They absorb moisture better than old-fashioned oats.
✅ Want them extra chewy? – Add ½ cup mini marshmallows before mixing in oats.
✅ Store properly – Keep in an airtight container for the best texture.

Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations!

1. White Chocolate Preacher Cookies 🍫

🤍 Swap cocoa powder for white chocolate chips for a vanilla twist.

2. Almond Joy Cookies 🥥

🥜 Use almond butter and add shredded coconut for a coconutty version!

3. Nutella No-Bake Cookies 🍪

🍫 Replace peanut butter with Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut flavor!

4. S’mores No-Bake Cookies 🍫🔥

🔥 Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers for a s’mores twist.

5. Keto & Low-Carb Version 🥑

🥑 Swap sugar for monk fruit sweetener and use coconut flour instead of oats.

What to Serve with No-Bake Cookies

These rich, chocolatey cookies pair perfectly with:

🥛 Cold Milk – A classic combo!
☕ Hot Coffee or Tea – Balances the sweetness perfectly.
🍨 Ice Cream – Crumble cookies over vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert.
🍓 Fresh Berries – A light, fruity contrast.

How to Store & Make Ahead

These cookies stay fresh and delicious for days!

Storing:

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing:

Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate No-Bake Cookies

These No-Bake Preacher Cookies are rich, chewy, and full of peanut butter & chocolate goodness! Whether you’re making them for a quick dessert, a party treat, or a snack for the kids, they’re always a hit.

🔥 Try them today and enjoy a quick, delicious, no-bake treat! 🔥