No-Bake Preacher Cookies are a nostalgic American treat known for their quick prep and rich flavor. Originating from the idea that you could whip them up fast if the preacher made a surprise visit, these cookies require no baking and minimal ingredients—just oats, cocoa, peanut butter, sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla.
The mixture is cooked briefly on the stovetop, then dropped onto parchment to set. With a chewy texture and deep chocolate-peanut butter taste, they’re perfect for last-minute guests, bake sales, or late-night cravings. Simple, comforting, and irresistibly sweet, these cookies are a timeless favorite in many Southern kitchens.
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious cookie that doesn’t require turning on the oven, No-Bake Preacher Cookies are your answer. These classic, old-fashioned treats are made with simple pantry staples and come together in just minutes. Creamy peanut butter, rich cocoa, hearty oats, and sweet sugar form the base of these chewy, fudgy cookies that have won hearts for generations.
Why Are They Called “Preacher Cookies”?
The name “Preacher Cookies” comes from a charming piece of Americana. Traditionally, when a preacher would make a surprise visit to a family’s home, the host needed to whip up a treat quickly.
These cookies were perfect—they didn’t need to be baked and could be ready in less than 30 minutes. The ingredients were almost always on hand, and the results were delicious enough to impress any guest.
No Bake Preacher Cookies Recipe
Description
No-Bake Preacher Cookies are a nostalgic American treat known for their quick prep and rich flavor.
Originating from the idea that you could whip them up fast if the preacher made a surprise visit, these cookies require no baking and minimal ingredients—just oats, cocoa, peanut butter, sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla.
The mixture is cooked briefly on the stovetop, then dropped onto parchment to set. With a chewy texture and deep chocolate-peanut butter taste, they’re perfect for last-minute guests, bake sales, or late-night cravings.
Simple, comforting, and irresistibly sweet, these cookies are a timeless favorite in many Southern kitchens.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Before you start cooking, line a baking sheet or countertop with parchment or wax paper. These cookies firm up quickly once the mixture is ready, so having your space prepped in advance is key.
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir occasionally as the butter melts, and then bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once it starts boiling, let it cook for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. Be careful not to overboil—this can result in dry cookies. Tip: Timing is critical. Set a timer for 60 seconds as soon as the mixture begins to bubble vigorously.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the peanut butter melts and blends fully into the hot mixture.
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Next, add the quick oats and a pinch of salt (if using), and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick, sticky, and glossy. Tip: Use quick oats, not old-fashioned rolled oats, as they absorb liquid better and help the cookies set properly.
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Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto your prepared parchment paper. Flatten them slightly if you like a more classic cookie shape. Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes until firm. You can speed this up by placing them in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
No-Bake Preacher Cookies are a timeless treat known for their chewy texture, chocolate-peanut butter flavor, and simple stovetop preparation.
Legend has it they earned their name because you could whip them up quickly if a preacher dropped by unexpectedly!
Here’s how to make the most of this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe and how many servings to expect.
Servings
A standard batch typically yields 24–30 cookies, depending on the size you scoop. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop gives you around 28 medium cookies. For larger cookies (about 2 tablespoons each), expect around 18–20.
Serving Size:
1–2 cookies per person is typical.
Perfect for:
- Potlucks or bake sales
- Lunchbox treats
- Coffee or tea snacks
- Emergency dessert cravings!
If you’re making them for a gathering or event, one batch serves about 12–15 people comfortably. Double the recipe for larger crowds.
Expert Tips for Perfect No-Bake Preacher Cookies
1. Timing Is Everything
One of the most common issues is cookies not setting properly. This all comes down to how long you boil the mixture.
- Too short (under 1 minute): Cookies will be soft and won’t set well.
- Too long (over 2 minutes): Cookies may turn dry and crumbly.
- Ideal: Bring to a rolling boil and cook for exactly 1 minute once the mixture starts bubbling vigorously (rolling boil), then remove from heat.
Use a timer to be precise!
2. Prep Everything in Advance
Have your oats, peanut butter, and vanilla measured and ready before you begin boiling the sugar mixture. Once the boiling is done, you must work quickly—otherwise, the mixture will stiffen before you can scoop it.
3. Use Quick Oats for Best Texture
Quick-cooking oats give the cookies a soft, chewy texture. If you use old-fashioned rolled oats, the cookies will be chewier and may not bind as well unless you let them sit longer. Avoid steel-cut oats altogether—they’re too coarse and won’t absorb the mixture properly.
4. Choose the Right Peanut Butter
Both creamy and chunky peanut butter work. However:
- Creamy gives a smoother, more consistent cookie.
- Chunky adds texture and crunch.
Avoid natural peanut butter that separates easily unless well-stirred—oil separation can cause setting issues.
5. Enhance with Add-Ins
For a twist on the classic:
- Stir in a handful of chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or mini chocolate chips after mixing in the oats.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of espresso for flavor depth.
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top for a salty-sweet combo.
6. Use Parchment or Silicone Mats
Always scoop cookies onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. They’ll be much easier to remove once set, and there’s no sticking.
7. Cool Completely Before Storing
Let the cookies set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before transferring to a container. If you’re in a hurry, chill them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week—or in the fridge for a fudgier texture.
Bonus Serving Tip: Make Mini Versions!
Use a teaspoon scoop to create bite-sized no-bake cookies. Great for party trays or for kids! You’ll get about 40–45 mini cookies per batch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins:
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Stir in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips after the oats for a melty surprise.
- Nutty Version: Use chunky peanut butter or add 1/4 cup chopped nuts.
- Coconut Lover's: Mix in 1/4 cup shredded coconut for added texture.
- Almond Joy Style: Use almond butter, shredded coconut, and a few chopped almonds.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
- No oven required
- Quick and easy—done in under 15 minutes
- Crowd-pleaser—everyone loves them!
- Great for kids, lunchboxes, potlucks, bake sales, or midnight snacks
Best Time to Make:
These cookies are ideal year-round, but especially handy:
- In summer, when it’s too hot to bake
- During holidays, when the oven is already full
- For last-minute guests or events
Final Thoughts:
No-Bake Preacher Cookies are the ultimate fuss-free dessert. With only a few basic ingredients and zero oven time, they’re perfect for anyone from beginner bakers to busy parents or anyone in need of a quick chocolate-peanut butter fix.
Whether you're making a nostalgic batch to relive childhood memories or whipping them up for a crowd, these cookies are sure to become a go-to favorite.
No-Bake Preacher Cookies are a nostalgic, budget-friendly, and incredibly forgiving recipe. With a little practice on timing and ingredients, you’ll master them in no time. Whether you're baking for guests, gifting, or craving something sweet without turning on the oven, this recipe is a go-to favorite.
And remember: always keep a pot, a spoon, and a jar of peanut butter ready—because you never know when the preacher (or your sweet tooth) might stop by!
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called “Preacher Cookies”?
The name “Preacher Cookies” comes from a time when households made quick, pantry-friendly treats to serve unexpected guests—often the local preacher dropping by.
Since these cookies require no baking and use simple ingredients like oats, peanut butter, cocoa, and sugar, they could be made in a hurry and still impress visitors.
Why won’t my cookies harden or set properly?
The most common reason is undercooking the sugar mixture. The sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa must come to a full rolling boil and be boiled for about 1 minute. If it’s under-boiled, the cookies may stay soft or sticky. Over-boiling, on the other hand, can make them dry and crumbly. Timing is key!
Can I make them without peanut butter or use alternatives?
Yes! If you have a peanut allergy or prefer something different, you can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter.
Just ensure it's creamy and unsweetened for best results. You may need to adjust sweetness depending on the substitute used.
How should I store No-Bake Preacher Cookies?
Once they’ve set, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for a firmer texture. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
