Description

These delightful no-bake cookies offer a bright and zesty lemon flavor, perfectly complementing the wholesome chewiness of oats. Prepared without an oven, they provide a convenient and satisfying treat with a soft, tender texture. The simple preparation method results in a refreshing and subtly sweet dessert.

Ingredients

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1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups quick-cooking oats

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Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Once boiling, continue to boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring continuously.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the quick-cooking oats to the saucepan and stir vigorously until all the oats are thoroughly coated with the mixture.
Working quickly before the mixture sets, drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently shape them into desired cookie forms, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes, until they are firm to the touch.

Notes

For best results, use quick-cooking oats as they absorb the liquid more effectively than old-fashioned oats in no-bake recipes.

Ensure the mixture boils for the full minute to achieve the correct consistency for setting. Boiling for too short a time may result in cookies that don’t firm up properly.

Store the finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add an additional half teaspoon of lemon zest.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 165
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 2g