When your sweet tooth comes calling, there’s nothing better than a batch of nostalgic Gluten Free No Bake Cookies that comes together in under 20 minutes. With a rich, chocolate-peanut butter flavor and a chewy texture, these cookies are as delicious as they are effortless.

No-bake cookies are one of my favorite desserts to make, especially because they’re so easy to make. Much like my no bake Christmas cookies, these treats come together in no time and with no oven. With only a handful of simple ingredients and foolproof steps, this recipe is perfect for when your sweet tooth comes calling.
What makes these cookies even better is that theyโre naturally gluten-free, thanks to using rolled oats instead of flour. The combination of cocoa, peanut butter, and oats yields a chewy, fudgy texture that feels just as indulgent as a gluten free chocolate chip cookies. Pair them with red hots cookies or cherry chip cookies for a festive and flavorful spread thatโs sure to impress.
Why these are the best no bake cookies
- Perfect texture – These cookies are the perfect balance of chewy and fudgy thanks to the combination of rolled oats and peanut butter.
- Foolproof instructions – No need for the oven or advanced baking skills, these cookies come together in no time. Perfect for beginner bakers.
- Naturally gluten free – By using rolled oats instead of flour, these cookies are naturally gluten free, these cookies are an easy gluten free treat that doesn’t sacrifice on texture or flavor.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Peanut butter – Creamy peanut butter works best.
- Vanilla extract – Since these cookies are gluten free, make sure you use gluten free vanilla extract.
- Butter
- Sugar – Classic white sugar works best for this recipe
- Cocoa powder – I like to use dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor, but classic cocoa powder will work as well.
- Rolled Oats – Make sure you use certified gluten free rolled oats for a celiac-friendly recipe.
- Milk – A splash of milk brings everything together.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats will give the cookies a heartier and chewier texture, while quick oats give a smoother and more dense cookie. If you like the classic soft cookie, stick with quick oats.
How to make gluten free no bake cookies
Prep: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set it aside.
Cookie mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once it starts boiling, cook for 1 minute without stirring.
PB and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until incorporated.
Add the oats: Mix in rolled oats until well coated.
Shape and cool: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the baking sheet. Let the cookies cool for about 30 minutes, or until they’re set.
Why didnโt my cookies set properly?
If your cookies are too soft or donโt hold their shape, itโs probably because the mixture didnโt boil for long enough. Make sure to let the cocoa, sugar, butter, and milk mixture come to a full rolling boil for at least one minute. This makes sure that the cookies firm up as they cool.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
If you have a peanut allergy don’t like peanuts, you can swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut free variation. Keep in mind, the flavor will change slightly depending on the substitute.
Storing and make ahead
Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container or ziplock baggie at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to store them for longer, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Make ahead: These cookies freeze really well, if you’re looking to serve them at a later date or just have a cookie on hand whenever you need one, freeze them in a ziplock baggie for up to 3 months.
More gluten free cookie recipes
- Lemon crinkle cookies
- Chocolate orange cookies
- Gluten free Christmas biscuits
- Vegan oatmeal raisin cookies
- Gluten free molasses cookies
- Gluten free dairy free brownies
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Nostalgic Gluten Free No Bake Cookies in Minutes
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 cups gluten free quick cooking oats
Instructions
- Add the butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder in a large saucepan and cook over medium heat until butter is melted, making sure to stir often. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from the heat, and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Stir in the oats and mix until completely coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto silicone mat or parchment paper lined baking sheets.
- Allow to cool for at least 25 minutes then enjoy.
Chandice Probst says
These cookies are the easiest and most delicious tree! They are nostalgic and totally remind me of being a kid in home ec class