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Healthy no bake cookies made with oats, peanut butter, and chocolate chips stacked on a white plate.

Best Healthy No Bake Cookie Recipe for Busy Days - Quick, Tasty, and Nutritious

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16 Cookies

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup natural nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew; well-stirred)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (optional but recommended for texture and omega-3s)
  • 1/4–1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Line your tray: Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet or large plate. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  • Warm the base: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine nut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Stir until smooth and just warmed through, about 2–3 minutes. Do not boil.
  • Flavor it: Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, salt, and cocoa powder until fully combined and glossy.
  • Add the dry mix: Fold in oats and ground flaxseed until evenly coated. If the mixture seems too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons more maple syrup. If too wet, sprinkle in more oats.
  • Optional add-ins: Let the mixture cool for 2–3 minutes, then fold in chocolate chips and coconut so they don’t melt completely.
  • Scoop and shape: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop mounds onto the parchment. Gently flatten with the back of the scoop for classic no-bake cookie shape.
  • Set: Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes or the freezer for 10–15 minutes until firm to the touch.
  • Enjoy: Serve right away or store for later. They’ll hold their shape best when chilled.