No Bakes

Prep: 10 min Cook: 5 min Cuisine: American

No Bakes are chewy, chocolatey treats with oats and peanut butter, perfect for quick snacks or homemade desserts that appeal to all ages and tastes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. cocoa
  • 2 c. sugar
  • 3/4 c. evaporated milk
  • 1/4 c. butter
  • 1/2 c. oatmeal
  • 2 Tbsp. peanut butter

Instructions

  1. Bring cocoa, sugar, evaporated milk, and butter to a full boil, stirring constantly.
  2. Cook for 5 minutes until the mixture, when dropped into cool water, forms a soft ball.
  3. Remove from heat and add oats and peanut butter; stir until the mixture starts to cool and thicken.
  4. Spoon the mixture onto wax paper or foil and let it harden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're looking for a nut-free option, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Ensure you stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning, and if you want to add a twist, mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture. This recipe is a delightful alternative to traditional American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These no bakes make an excellent snack or dessert on their own, but you can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid environment, refrigerating them can help maintain their shape. To reheat, simply allow them to come to room temperature, as these treats are best enjoyed at a slightly softened state.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of No Bakes contains roughly 1167 calories, with 41g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), iron (95% of the Daily Value), and protein (82% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).

1167 kcal 58% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 41.1g 82% DV
Total Fat 81.8g 100% DV
Carbs 81.7g 30% DV
Fiber 28.2g 100% DV
Sugar 18.1g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 706.7mg 31% DV
Potassium 2189.5mg 47% DV
Cholesterol 23.4mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 259.8mcg 29% DV
Vitamin C 5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 277.5mg 21% DV
Iron 17.2mg 95% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Peanut

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

While evaporated milk gives a creamier consistency, you can substitute it with regular milk. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as regular milk might not thicken in the same way. Keep an eye on the mixture while boiling.

What can I do if my mixture doesn't harden?

If your no bakes don't harden, it might be due to undercooking. Ensure you boil the mixture for a full 5 minutes. If they still don't set, you can try refrigerating them for a couple of hours to help them firm up.

Can I add other flavors to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can incorporate vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor. Some people also enjoy adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for variation, making this a customizable treat.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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