These fudgy mint chocolate no-bake cookies are rich, creamy, and packed with refreshing mint flavor. Made with simple pantry staples and no oven required, they come together quickly and set into perfectly chewy, chocolatey treats that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No oven required, making it perfect for warm days
Quick and easy with minimal prep time
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with cool mint
Soft, fudgy texture with just the right chew
Great for holidays, parties, or everyday treats
Uses simple, affordable ingredients
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup whole milk
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 ¾ cups quick-cooking oats
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or wax paper. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, allow it to boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly. This step ensures the cookies set properly.
Remove the saucepan from heat immediately. Stir in the peanut butter until smooth and fully incorporated.
Add the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
Fold in the quick-cooking oats and chocolate chips. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the chocolate chips begin to slightly melt into the mixture.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets.
Let the cookies sit at room temperature for 30–40 minutes, or until fully set and firm to the touch. For faster setting, refrigerate for about 20 minutes.
Once set, serve and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Setting time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: About 45–55 minutes
Variations
Extra minty: Add an additional ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor.
Chocolate drizzle: Melt ½ cup additional chocolate chips and drizzle over the cookies once set.
Mint chips: Replace semisweet chocolate chips with mint chocolate chips for intensified flavor.
Nut-free version: Omit peanut butter and substitute with sunflower seed butter.
Coconut twist: Stir in ¼ cup shredded unsweetened coconut for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
No reheating is required. If frozen, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Why didn’t my cookies set properly?
The mixture may not have boiled long enough. Make sure it reaches a full rolling boil for exactly 1 minute.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Quick oats are recommended for the best texture. Old-fashioned oats will make the cookies thicker and chewier.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Reducing sugar may affect how well the cookies set, as sugar helps create the proper structure.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk.
How strong is the mint flavor?
The mint flavor is noticeable but balanced. You can adjust the peppermint extract to taste.
Can I skip the peanut butter?
Peanut butter helps with texture and flavor, but you can substitute with another nut or seed butter.
Why are my cookies dry and crumbly?
The mixture may have boiled too long, causing it to overcook.
Can I add food coloring?
Yes, a drop or two of green food coloring can enhance the mint appearance.
Do these need refrigeration to set?
They can set at room temperature, but refrigeration speeds up the process.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger saucepan to accommodate the mixture.
Conclusion
Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint in an easy, no-fuss treat. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they are ideal for busy days, holidays, or whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying. Once you try them, they are sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
Rich, chewy no-bake cookies packed with deep chocolate flavor and refreshing mint. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these fudgy treats set perfectly without turning on the oven.
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:24 cookies
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir until butter melts completely.
Bring to a rolling boil and boil exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
Add peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
Fold in oats and chocolate chips until evenly combined.
Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared sheets.
Let set at room temperature 30–40 minutes or refrigerate 20 minutes until firm.
Serve once fully set.
Notes
Boil exactly 1 minute to ensure proper setting.
Quick oats provide best texture; old-fashioned oats create thicker cookies.
Store airtight at room temperature up to 5 days.
Freeze up to 2 months with parchment between layers.
Adjust peppermint extract to control mint intensity.
