Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Refreshing: The lemon flavor adds a burst of freshness that makes these cookies stand out.
- No Baking Required: Quick and easy, with no oven time, these cookies come together in minutes.
- Chewy and Delicious: The combination of oats and butter creates a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, they are easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2½ cups quick oats
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, milk, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Boil and Simmer: Once the mixture starts boiling, let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve and the butter to melt completely.
- Add the Oats: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the quick oats until well combined.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest for that zesty lemon flavor.
- Form the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper. Shape them into cookies while they are still warm.
- Let Cool and Set: Allow the cookies to cool for about 30 minutes, or until they are set and firm to the touch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Set Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger along with the lemon juice and zest.
- Different Oats: You can swap the quick oats for rolled oats if you prefer a chewier texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These cookies can also be frozen! Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to 2 months. Let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use regular oats, but the texture of the cookies may be a little chewier.
How do I make the cookies firmer?
If you prefer a firmer texture, allow the cookies to set for an hour or more, or refrigerate them after they’ve cooled slightly.
Can I add more lemon flavor?
Yes! Feel free to add more lemon juice and zest to intensify the citrus flavor.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter and use non-dairy milk.
What can I serve with these cookies?
These lemon oatmeal cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, tea, or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
Conclusion
Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a fun and easy twist on the classic no-bake cookie recipe. With the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon combined with the chewy texture of oats, these cookies are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Simple, quick, and delicious, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Lemon Oatmeal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional no-bake cookie. Featuring a fresh, zesty lemon flavor combined with chewy oats, these cookies are simple to make and require no baking. Perfect for a quick, refreshing dessert, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
- 2½ cups quick oats
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Fresh lemon juice and zest to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, milk, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Boil and Simmer: Once the mixture starts boiling, let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve and the butter to melt completely.
- Add the Oats: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the quick oats until well combined.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Form the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper. Shape them into cookies while they are still warm.
- Let Cool and Set: Allow the cookies to cool for about 30 minutes or until they are firm to the touch.
Notes
- Add-ins: Try adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, or coconut flakes for additional texture.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger can add a nice kick to the lemon flavor.
- Different Oats: You can substitute rolled oats for a chewier texture.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American