Gluten Free No Bake Cookies: A Sweet Indulgence without the Oven

Craving a delightful treat but don't want to turn on the oven? These gluten free no bake cookies are your answer! Packed with simple ingredients and easy to make, these cookies are not only a great recipe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity but also a tasty option for anyone with a sweet tooth. So, let's dive into creating this heavenly batch of no-bake cookies that will leave you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup salted butter (use vegan butter for a dairy free option)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup milk (try coconut milk for a delightful twist)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups gluten-free oats (certified gluten-free oats, quick-cooking oats, or old-fashioned oats)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ¼ cup almond butter or cashew butter
• ¼ cup sunflower seed butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:Gather all your ingredients and ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Create the Chocolate Mixture:In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined. Pour in the milk (coconut milk, if you prefer) and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Incorporate the Peanut Butter:Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add almond butter or other nut butters for extra depth of flavor.
4. Combine with Oats:Add the gluten-free oats to the chocolate mixture, stirring until the oats are evenly coated. If you want a bit of crunch and extra sweetness, toss in chocolate chips at this stage.
5. Scoop and Shape:Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie for them to set.
6. Cool and Set:Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature until they set. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator for a quicker setting time.
7. Store and Enjoy:Once the cookies have set, transfer them to an airtight container lined with wax paper. This will keep them fresh for several days. If you manage to resist eating them all at once, these cookies can also be frozen for longer storage.

Tips and Variations:

• Healthier Twist: For a healthier version, substitute some of the sugar with coconut sugar or pure maple syrup. You can also use virgin coconut oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, skip the peanut butter and opt for sunflower seed butter or a seed butter of your choice.
• Chocolate Lover's Dream: Increase the cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor, or mix in cacao powder for a more intense chocolate experience.
• Childhood Nostalgia: Recreate a childhood favorite by adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty combination.

Whether you're following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for an easy and delicious treat, these gluten-free no-bake cookies are a fantastic choice. With their simplicity, versatility, and a handful of ingredients, they are perfect for first-time bakers and experienced chefs alike. Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of biting into a chewy, chocolaty delight that satisfies your sweet tooth without the need for an oven. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies and treat yourself to a little taste of heaven!

More gluten free no bake desserts to try:

Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake

Healthy Edible Cookie Dough for One