Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Irresistible No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are the perfect treat when you want something indulgent without turning on the oven. These cookies combine the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel with a touch of sea salt for balance, all wrapped up in a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. They’re quick to prepare, require just a handful of simple ingredients, and are ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of sweet and salty makes them addictive, while their no-bake method makes them foolproof. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a quick dessert fix, these cookies are as elegant as they are easy. If you love caramel, these cookies will become one of your go-to recipes.
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Irresistible No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies
- Total Time: 20 mins (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chewy, sweet, and salty no-bake cookies made with oats, peanut butter, and a rich salted caramel coating, perfect for an easy dessert or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt, for garnish
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and caramel sauce until smooth.
- Stir in oats until fully coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while warm.
- Allow to cool and set for 30–45 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate once cookies are set.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Quick oats can be used for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Butter – Provides richness and helps form the caramel base.
Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth, creating a caramel-like flavor.
Milk – Smooths the caramel mixture and gives the cookies their chewiness.
Quick oats – Create texture and structure, making the cookies hearty.
Salted caramel sauce – Infuses the cookies with sweet, buttery caramel flavor.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
Sea salt flakes – Sprinkled on top for the perfect salty-sweet balance.
Optional add-ins – Chopped pecans, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
Directions
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then stir in brown sugar and milk. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salted caramel sauce and vanilla extract.
Add oats to the caramel mixture, stirring until fully coated. If using optional add-ins, fold them in at this stage. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, flattening slightly into cookie shapes.
Sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of sea salt while still warm. Allow them to set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or refrigerate for faster setting. Serve once firm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 cookies. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and setting requires 20 minutes. In total, the cookies are ready in 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in layers with parchment paper for up to 2 months, thawing at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the set cookies.
Nutty Caramel Cookies – Stir in chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts.
Coconut Twist – Add shredded coconut for a chewy, tropical flair.
Peanut Butter Caramel – Mix in a spoonful of peanut butter with the caramel sauce.
Holiday Spice – Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for festive flavor.
Double Caramel – Use caramel-flavored oats or stir in caramel chips for extra richness.
Mini Cookies – Make bite-sized versions for parties or snacking.
Dipped Version – Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
FAQs
Do I need to cook the oats first?
No, quick oats soften in the caramel mixture without cooking.
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be chewier and less uniform.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.
How long do the cookies take to set?
About 20–30 minutes at room temperature or 15 minutes in the fridge.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk.
Will the cookies harden too much?
No, they should stay chewy if you don’t overboil the caramel mixture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats.
Do they travel well?
Yes, they pack easily and make a great gift or party treat.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger saucepan.
Can I make them less sweet?
Yes, reduce the sugar slightly or use dark chocolate drizzle to balance sweetness.
Conclusion
Irresistible No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are the ultimate quick and easy indulgence. With their chewy texture, sweet caramel flavor, and hint of sea salt, they strike the perfect balance between decadent and effortless. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies require no oven, minimal ingredients, and deliver maximum satisfaction. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or gift, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.
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