I have a weakness for sweets. Problem is, I’ve really been trying to eat more healthy cookies and stay away from excessive amounts of refined sugar. And that’s where these healthy no-bake cookies come in, because gooey chocolate is my first love -and if it can be incorporated into a gluten-free recipe, then it’s gonna happen.
After they were finished, Gabriel and I tasted them, declared them quite good (so did Garret, but he’s not really a trustworthy judge).
Since that time, we’ve made this recipe more times than I can count. It’s become our go-to dessert when we need something for a potluck, or to take to a party at the last minute – or just because we want a treat.
I have to say, these were definitely different than your average cookie. The main difference in healthy no-bake cookies is the lack of sugar crystals. These have a much more creamy texture. But that’s kind of what we’re going for! Call it creamy, or fudgy, or whatever you like – if you love no-bake cookies these will not disappoint!
I mean, for real, who’s going to complain about rich, creamy, chocolate cookie?!
Healthy No-Bake Cookies
You may have noticed that most of my healthy dessert recipes contain peanut butter (like these three ingredient toddler cookies). Peanut butter
So here it is, a healthy version of a really bad dessert!
What to expect from this recipe:
- Simplicity. You only need five ingredients, including the technically optional vanilla.
- Ease. You only have to melt the ingredients (specifically the peanut butter) enough to get everything stirred together – and then all you have to do is stir.
- Et voila! This truly is one of the easiest treats you will ever make.
- I mentioned subbing almond butter if you’re not a peanut butter fan, but it bears repeating here. Sun butter and soy butter are both terrific allergy-friendly options for making no-bake cookies.
- Another ingredients swap I’ve been enjoying is using raw cacao powder instead of traditional cocoa powder. It’s a great way to add a little more nutrition to your treat. I’ve specifically been using Sunfood cacao powder.
- Don’t be afraid to make fun additions! Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice crunch, subbing coconut for some of the oatmeal is a treat, craisins can be fun – the possibilities are endless!
Update: Click here to see the updated, reduced sweetener recipe for healthy no-bake cookies that you see in the video above.
Healthy No-Bake Cookies
Ingredients
- • 1 cup natural peanut butter
- ½ – ¾ cup honey
- ½ cup coconut oil (or butter if you prefer)
- 6 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 2¼ cups gluten-free quick oats
Instructions
- Note: You can use regular peanut butter – but of course, that will make your cookies reduced sugar rather than sugar free.
- Combine first four ingredients in a sauce pan and warm gently on stove top.*
- Next, add in the vanilla, oatmeal, and stir well.
- Drop by the spoonful onto a saran lined plate and let cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator – if they last that long.
- Enjoy!
Notes
*If you’re using raw honey, you’ll want to be careful to warm it only until the coconut oil melts and the peanut butter softens. No reason to heat the life out of your honey!
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Nicole McClelland says
I’m literally licking the bowl as I type this! These are amazing!!!! Thanks for sharing!!!
julie says
I used to make this all the time for my kids when they were younger – the sugar variety. We called them dog terds. But I would like a more healthier variety also. Thanks for posting!
Bec says
Oh I loved the sound of these & was so excited for my boy who is anaphalactic to dairy & egg…but then saw oats 🙁 which he is allergic to! Is there anything I could use instead pleaseeee?! Thank you, they look lovely!
Elise New says
If you can find another flaked/rolled grain that would work. I know that our bulk food store carried rolled wheat, which works in much the same way as the oats, but of course that presents its own problems.
Sorry I can’t be much help, and good luck in your search!
Maggie says
I think there is such a thing as flaked quinoa? I’ve seen it in my grocery store. That would work nicely! 🙂
Tamara says
There is a flake type of quinoa, but it’s much more like potato flakes and wouldn’t stand up to this very well.
Elise says
Thanks for the info! I’ve been meaning to look into quinoa flakes because it would be WONDERFUL to have an oatmeal substitution, but haven’t had time yet. 🙂
Laura says
Spelt flakes should do the trick. They r hearty n should hold up well. I love to include them in my own homemade muesli mix. Good luck!
Elise says
Yes, BUT they’re not gluten-free, so allergy sufferers be ware. 🙂
Jewels says
Unsweetened coconut flakes work wonders. I use that instead of oatmeal in these yummy goodies.
Sherry Burroughs says
Try corn flakes
★★★★★
Lisa says
You could try shredded unsweetened coconut. I modify my recipe by using crunchy natural peanut butter and add some coconut to it. I had thought about using all coconut. It may be a little runnier but… I use a mini muffin tin and let these set up in the freezer anyway then put in a freezer bag and store in the freezer. That way I can thaw one at a time for a quick, healthy, portion controlled treat.
jean says
maybe you could use rice crispies
Elise says
That’s a GREAT idea!
Connie says
Can you use maple syrup instead of honey to make them vegan?
Elise says
Yes, absolutely! 🙂
Clare Buswell says
Buckwheat flakes are a great oat substitute. You can get them in the healthfood store. It’s not the cereal flake type, these actually look like oats. They make a great alternative to porridge too.
Amanda says
What about puffed rice? I find it in the natural section of the grocery store in the cereal section. I use it for rice crispies sometimes. It is larger than a rice crispy but we like them
Elise says
That’s a great idea! We’ve used puffed rice in rice crispy treats and they were, well, not crispy lol, but I think they’d be great for no-bake cookies!
Valdís Blöndal says
Sounds so delicious !!
do you use unsweetened cocoa powder ? and is it vanilla extract that you are using?
🙂
Thank you!
Elise says
Thank you! Yes and yes to both questions. 🙂
Theresa says
Thank you so much these are great! Just waiting for these to set up..I licked the bowl clean
Elise says
So glad you like them! Isn’t licking the bowl the best part?!
Mikaela says
Try adding some peppermint essence, they taste like mint slice!! Flawless recipe, thank you!!
Elise says
That sounds AMAZING!Peppermint + chocolate = heaven!
Thanks for the suggestion!
impressed says
These might be the best cookies I have EVER tried, and they are healthy!! I dont know if I can go a day without them now! Thank you so much for such an amazing, easy and healthy recipe!!
Tasia says
How many does the recipe make??
Elise says
About 1 1/2 dozen…. but that depends on how big you make them of course. I usually drop them from a heaping teaspoon. 🙂
Mandy says
Thanks for the recipe! I thought these were really good. I love the coconut flavor from the oil. I ran
out of honey and used about a 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 1/2 cup of honey–not sure if it would work, but it did! They were very, very soft until I refrigerated them.
I would like to try them again with the full amount of honey, and adding some shredded coconut and maybe some rice krispies????? 🙂
Thanks again!
susan meyers says
Is there a no calorie sweetner I could use in place of honey?
Elise says
I don’t have a lot of experience with zero calorie sweeteners, but I would say probably not as it is, because the honey adds a lot of bulk, leaving it out would change the texture.
At the very least, you’d need to experiment with adding more butter or peanut butter – or both.
Sorry I’m not much help here!
Dani says
Agave nectar is a great substitute
Melinda says
These look really good and I’m excited to try them, but you really need to be careful throwing around the word “healthy” or implying they’re sugar free. Honey is still sugar and 3/4c is a relatively significant amount.
Elise says
Thanks for your input. Honestly, I’m not sure there are rules for defining healthy. Some might say they’re unhealthy because they contain peanut butter, others might say the oatmeal is unhealthy.
One thing’s for darn sure: They’re lightyears healthier than their sugar laden counterpart.
Honey actually is quite healthy. Especially if you use raw honey and are careful not to overheat it and kill the enzymes. 3/4 of a cup is a significant amount… if you eat the entire batch yourself, which I certainly don’t recommend. Well, not officially anyway. 😉
Melinda says
I completely agree that honey is a much better choice than refined, white sugar. But your picture claims these are “sugar free, dairy free” and that’s not true. Honey is sugar. You’re misleading your readers. Like I said, these look like delicious cookies. But you can’t be making false claims about them.
Jill says
How about being grateful for the wonderful recipe and keeping negative comments to yourself? Cant we all play nice?
THANK YOU for taking the time to post this wonderful recipe!
Bridgett says
Thank you Elise…these are AMAZING!!!
Sorry there are some on here saying things about honey not being “healthy” or “sugar free.” I think they are great and much better version for some choosing to “eat clean” as opposed to using processed foods. I can’t thank you enough. Again, they’re amazing.
Elise says
Thank you! I’m so glad you love them and you have no idea how much I appreciate your encouraging comment! 🙂
Mariella says
Honey is Not sugar as sugar is being defined here. If she used corn puffs would you insist that there is “sugar” in the recipe??? How about if she added some date paste? Wouldn’t that be “sugar?” She did not add granulated sugar. That means they are sugar-free. You need to accept that you are very wrong in this instance and stop arguing about it. It’s okay to be wrong. I certainly don’t think any less of you for that. But if you persist in your wrongness once it’s been pointed out, well, that is a different story. Now go make some of these nice SUGAR-FREE treats and eat one. Trust me, you need it!!!!
MJ says
I have to say that as a biochemist I consider honey to be a sugar, so when I read sugar-free on the photo I had high doubts that they truly were sugar free. I won’t get into a biochemical discussion that is bound to go over everyone’s heads,but to make it simple, honey is a super saturated sugar solution. Even raw honey is composed of a variety of sugars; mainly glucose (dextrose),fructose (levulose), sucrose and maltose. Yes, you are getting a few trace minerals from eating raw honey or dark amber honey but you are still getting the same sugar content.
Steve says
“She did not add granulated sugar. That means they are sugar-free.” –Mariella
***********************
This is absolutely false, so if this is the way you want to define it, you need term other than “sugar-free.” Melinda and MJ are 100% right.
***********************
“You need to accept that you are very wrong in this instance and stop arguing about it.” –Mariella
OMG. Just OMG. This would be funny if I thought you were joking.
Yes, Mariella, date paste is sugar.
Evaporated cane juice is sugar — the name is actually a description of exactly how refined granulated sugar is made.
Honey is sugar.
Concentrated fruit juice is sugar (fruit juice is full of sugar, let’s get rid of most of that extra water and we’re left with…sugar)
Corn syrup is sugar (whether high fructose or not)
Maple syrup is sugar.
Plants are sugar-making factories, so if you are adding a nature-made ingredient to a recipe to make it sweeter, that is a clue that you are most likely adding sugar, even though it might be named in a way to disguise that fact. Exception: stevia (unless combined with dextrose). Even agave nectar is mostly sugar. Read the nutrition facts on the label and look for the word “Sugar.” If it is more than 0g, it is not sugar-free.
If you take something made with sugar or that contains sugar and add it to a recipe (corn puffs, to use your example), **there is sugar in it and they are not sugar-free**
People who need to eat sugar-free are hopefully educated enough to know the difference because their lives depend on it. As soon as they see “honey” in the ingredients list, they’d say “Nope” and close the browser tab.
I’m all for eating “clean” and more natural sources of sugar where sweetening is needed or desired, but it is still sugar. Anyone who says differently has either been deceived (by self or other) due to ignorance or is trying to deceive you.
Brandy says
This was going to be similar to my response; it’s a really easy fix, “refined sugar free”. While honey is by far the healthier option, if you are talking to a diabetic and telling them this cookie is sugar free it would be dangerous and entirely misinformed.
Lisa says
Exactly. People on a truly sugar-free diet could not eat these. Honey is definitely a healthier sugar, but it is still a sugar.
Bobi says
Are you aware that honey contains sugar and has more carbohydrates and more calories per teaspoon than granulated sugar? I don’t dispute that honey is “healthier” but if you are trying to stay away from sugar because of the calories it contains then eating these it isn’t going to be much different than eating the “un-heathy” version.
Elise says
Yes ma’am, I am. But if you read the recipe, you’ll noticed that low calorie isn’t mentioned anywhere. Only health.
If you’re trying to stay away from sugar on a purely calorie concerned basis, then you need to know that sugar is a lower calorie carbohydrate. In other words, if you try to replace sugar with a zero calorie sweetener, you’ll have to make up the volume with something else, probably a grain (flour) and butter, which is going to be higher calorie, effectively shooting yourself in the foot. So much for being able to lose weight while still eating enough to stuff a horse, eh?
The thing about honey though, is that unlike sugar, it has many redemptive health qualities.
Cheers.
Brittany says
While honey is considered a “healthier” substitute to table sugar, the fact is that it is still sugar – albeit a natural from of sugar. The 3/4 cup of honey in this recipe is contributing 209 grams of sugar, so as your recipes claims “sugar-free”, that is not accurate and is misleading. I don’t know how many cookies this recipe makes, but I calculated the nutritional analysis for this recipe and, assuming it makes 24 cookies, that means about 9 grams of sugar per cookie. I in no way mean to be negative about this, but simply want to point out the facts. Overall, I applaud you for creating a ‘healthier’ version of this cookie. I love no-bake cookies and am always looking for something a little healthier – so thank you!
Steve says
Ditto, Brittany! Well done.
Brittany says
And, just to add, 9 grams of sugar per cookie would be comparable to just over 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar per cookie (if making 24 cookies)! There are about 4 grams of sugar in a teaspoon.
Steve says
“Honey is not sugar” = the Titanic
Nutrition = the iceberg
Science = the ocean
Aline says
I can’t wait to make these for my good friend and I who are both 7 months preggo and are having a hard time controlling our craving for sweets! I think this will be a bit of a healthier substitute to the tablespoons of Nutella I’ve chowing down 😉 Also I would just like to say that I love your responses to the slightly negative comments, great positive and educated answers!
Jo says
I agree with the above comment, your response to some negative comments was well versed. Good on you!
Just curious how you think these would hold up in the freezer?
Take care
Elise says
I haven’t tried freezing them, but I think they would hold up well.
Victoria says
These are delicious, well at least the gooey batter – I’m waiting for them to set. I actually really, really liked the taste even before I added the cocoa. I think I could have added more oats instead of cocoa and even had plain peanut butter no-bakes. I’ve been on a kick of making chocolate no-bakes and just plain PB no-bakes for about a month now and I must say that I am so very thrilled to have a much healthier substitute. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe!
Emilee says
These look amazing! Could I use old fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Elise says
Yes, definitely! I just prefer the texture of quick oats. 🙂
michelle says
Is there a calorie count on these
Mary Lou says
My question, too!
Megan says
I wonder if you could replace the cocoa powder with chocolate protein powder to make a pre/post -workout snakc?
Elise says
I’m thinking yes. It would definitely change the taste a bit, but I think it would be very good!
Leila says
Have you made these with almond butter?
Elise says
I haven’t, but I know others have with good success. I would imagine the batter/syrup would be a tad thinner than cookies made with peanut butter, so you may need to use a bit less.
Mirlandra @ Mirlandra's Kitchen says
Yum! I needed a chocolate fix and have been resisting “unhealthy” options all day! I’m headed into the kitchen momentarily to give these a whirl! Thanks!
Nikki says
I am allee gif to peanuts can I use another butter in place of pb?
Elise says
Yes! Just be aware that some other nut/seed butters are thinner, which could affect how the cookies set up.
Louise says
Hi Elise, would (WOWBUTTER) work just as well as PB as I too have a nut allergy. Its 100% peanut free.
Elise says
I’ve never seen Wow butter in person, but from what I’ve heard, it’s almost just like peanut butter, so yes! As long as it has a similar thickness, that’s all you need!
Tina says
Very misleadin. honey isnt sugar free, it has more calories and carbohydrates then suger! Honey does have some health benefits, but you would need too consume a lot of honey. Like any treat enjoy occasionally and in moderation.
Jo-Anne Pfoh says
gotta say they do look good. I wish I liked chocolate 🙁
Pat K says
This is a wonderful recipe . . . . . obviously these people have no idea about honey they have probably only eaten the crap they sell at the grocery store that is so refined it doesn’t have real flavor or any benefits . . . .if you buy pure local honey it is good for you . . . . . . Its natural sugars play an important role in preventing fatigue during exercise. The glucose in honey is absorbed by the body quickly and gives an immediate energy boost, while the fructose is absorbed more slowly providing sustained energy. It is known that honey has also been found to keep levels of blood sugar fairly constant compared to other types of sugar. . . It’s antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties can help improve digestive system and help you stay healthy and fight disease . . . . . One of the better known health benefits of honey is that it is able to help treat sore throats. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey not only soothes throats but can also kill certain bacteria that causes the infection . . . . besides that REAL LOCAL HONEY tastes wonderful
barbara says
thank you Pat K for your post I could not have said it better!
Nik says
Pure honey does have health benefits….but even the healthiest honey is not sugar-free as the recipe claims. Just thought I would mentions this. Looks delicious though!
Nikki says
Thank God someone said this! All I wanted to do was read some comments on if any mine used almond almond or sunflower butter. I can’t believe the things people write! I have struggles with eating disorders and digestive issues for years and years. I can’t live without my honey! Whether it’s raw manuka for digestion or local honey for cooking/baking. I can’t stand when people say sugar is sugar. I find it’s typically the people that will always be overweight. I have never gained weight or bloat from any honey … period. Even organic sugar with immediately cause a reaction. Bottom line is, your body tolerates, reacts, and digests honey completely different than other sugars. I honestly even digest it way better that pure maple syrup. Thank you for the recipe I am excited to try two different versions with peanut butter and another nut butter for my sensitivities!
★★★★★
Susan Miller says
Thank you for this recipe! This is my husband’s favorite Cookie, but I don’t make them often because of all the sugar. I’m going to surprise him this evening with these. I know he won’t even be able to tell the difference.
Steve says
“I know he won’t even be able to tell the difference”
You’re probably right because they still have sugar in them. 🙂
Mamat says
Lol
Michelle says
Thank you so much for this! I love these cookies, but have been looking for a way to sub the sugar for honey, so this is fantastic. Exactly what I was looking for, TY!
Long time Baker says
Nice recipe. Being glutenfree I made the sugar version more often than I should. Will make your version more often. My husband loves raisins and dried cranberries so I add a couple cups to mine. Yum Yum.
Nikki Frank-Hamilton says
Sounds so good! Recently gluten-free & craving something sweet. This fits the bill! Sharing for my facebook peeps…too good not to share! Thanks
Jo says
Got very excited when I saw “sugar free”. My husband is diabetic and he LOVES the diabetic safe treats I make for him. Sadly, these are far from “sugar free” with that much honey (sugar) in them.
Carolyn says
EXACTLY what I was thinking. 9 grams of sugar from one of these…
Audra says
I used just a little under a 1/4 cup of honey for the entire batch the second time, because the first I found to be too sweet, and they came out perfectly!
Steve says
Nice, thanks for the tip!
faye lear says
Used to have these as a kid. I’m now allergic to peanuts an tree nuts. Has anyone tried these with soynut butter? Would love to try.
Elise says
I know that some have tried them with almond and cashew butter. I don’t know what the taste or consistency of soy nut butter is, so I can’t say for sure, but if it’s close to one of those, it should work. Let me know! 🙂
melissa says
Hey do you think margerine would work instead of coconut oil? wanted to make these but that’s all i have right now
Elise says
I *think* so, but I don’t use margarine, so I couldn’t say for sure.
betty says
How long do you cook the honey, coconut oil and pb on the stove?
Elise says
just until they’re melted.
Joyce says
I was just diagnosed as having an “extremely severe” allergy to refined sugars, so have to be most cautious about what I eat now. I don’t have to read every package of food–I cook from scratch, so am pretty safe–but do have to be aware of not mindlessly eating sweets, especially (the reaction is horrific!). These cookies–LOVE no-bakes!–look as if they’ll supply that little something that I crave occasionally. Thank you for the recipe 🙂
Elise says
Thank you SO MUCH for your kind comment – it warms my heart!
I’m so sorry to hear about your allergies!It can be a burden, but as my husband with his many food allergies says “it’s really a blessing in disguise – I’m eating so much healthier now!”
~Elise
Andrea Dorris says
Thanx so much for this recipe!
Danielle says
So these are delicious. My recipe yields 25 cookies. I also didn’t have any natural PB so I just used what I had. Everything else I followed. And after doing the conversion, however delicious, they came out to 153.4 calories per cookie and 10 grams of fat.
So to all you ladies out there looking for something to have a hearty snack on…. This might not be it!.
Delicious , yes. Healthy?…. Maybe not all combined.
Elise says
Glad you liked them! Keep in mind that calories don’t necessarily equal health. Many “super foods” are loaded with calories, but they’re healthy calories.
Too much, even of a good thing, is still too much, but that doesn’t make a good thing bad. 🙂
Andrea Dorris says
I have to be on a VERY strict Vegan diet with NO added sugar (except for honey). These cookies are PERFECT! THANK YOU SO MUCH!
kscoot says
Vegan who eats honey??!
Melinda says
These are wonderful! I made some for work and they didn’t last long, and I got lots of compliments. I made another batch for home and added about a cup of chopped peanuts. I froze them last night and am happy to report that you can eat them right out of the freezer. The other thing I tried on the second batch was to remove the mixture from the heat and put the lid on the pan for about ten minutes before I scooped which made the oats softer. I used a 1.5 Tbs. cookie scoop and got between 25-30 cookies each time.
Oh, and my toddler loves them!
Thanks again!
toastqueen says
I want to try that with the cover – I liked the taste but the oats were so hard for me (now I”m wondering whether I used old fashioned oats!)
Brenda D says
Hi Elise! Thank you for your posts! Most of my family members have no sugar in their homes and I’m working on that myself. I enjoy baking and sharing, sounds like you do too.
Lisa says
these are great-at least the batter. Waiting for them to set up. I feel the honey is a far healthier option than the corn syrup I’ve used before and definitely healthier than the artificial sweeteners. Thank you!
Andrea says
Is it cocoa powder as in something like hot chocolate mix or as in Hershey’s cacao powder?
Elise says
Yes, like Hershey’s. Just plain cocoa powder from the baking isle.
Carolyn says
Healthy No-Bake Cookies, 1 serving(s) 169 calories 17g carbs 10g fat 4g protein 15 mg sodium 9 g sugar
Melissa says
As the mom of a Type 1 diabetic, I always look for the nutritional information. Thank you for putting the information here. Carbs aren’t bad, we just have to count every single one.
Audra says
I’ve made these from your recipe twice now and they are ah-may-zing! My son and boyfriend gobble them up and say they can’t even tell they’re not full of refined sugar. The second time I made them I used a hair less than a 1/4 cup of honey and they were still perfect and almost identical to the no bakes my family makes with sugar! Thanks again!
DLC says
Can you have any more audible ads on this site? I’d love to pin this recipe, but I don’t want all the rest that’s coming with the recipe. Multiple recordings of the same alzheimer’s ads running on top of each other…noise pollution!
Elise says
I am so sorry about that! (I must have my speakers turned off.) I’m emailing my ads manager about it right now!
Megan says
These look delicious, but they are not sugar free! Honey is sugar, and this recipe puts about 2 teaspoons of sugar in each cookie (based on making 1.5 dozen) which translates to about 11 grams of sugar per cookie. While honey has health benefits over white sugar, it is still sugar!
Ileana says
I don’t often comment on recipes I make, but after last night I knew I had to. I made these for a group, and ended up having some left over (group was smaller than expected) and I was glad. I wanted to eat them all myself anyway 🙂 They are a delicious and easy treat to put together. The group enjoyed them too. You can’t eat just one 🙂
Kyla says
Will these set up nice and firm or will they become gooey when you take them out of the freezer? I want to make them a classroom treat for my daughter’s class but they will be sitting out for a couple of hours before being eaten by the class. Just trying to decide if it will be too messy.
Elise says
You may want to separate the layers with parchment or wax paper, because they do tend to be a bit sticky, but they should hold their shape fine! 🙂
Wendy says
With the ‘regular’ version there is a way of making them in the microwave. Think that would work here?
Elise says
Yes, all you’d need to do is heat the butter/coconut oil and peanut butter until it’s melted and then take it out of the microwave and add everything else.
Sarah says
Thanks for the recipe! I constantly fight the office battle against unhealthy treats. I brought these in and everyone loved them! 🙂
Hannah says
Hi!
These look sooo good, but Im not a big fan of peanut butter…is there an alternative or do u not really taste it tht much in the cookies?
Thanks! 🙂
Elise says
I haven’t tried any others myself, but I know a lot of people use and love almond and/or cashew butters.
Rhonda says
The oats and peanutbutter have carbs, carbs convert to sugar. Therefore, no matter what peanutbutter you use it will not be “sugar free”. Watch for carbs. You want “net carbs” to be atleast 10 or less to be healthy. Net carbs are… Carbs- sugar alcohols- fiber= net carbs.
Margerie says
I was searching for an easy and healthy chocolate fix for what seems like ages, and boy have I stumbled upon the jackpot! I had all the ingredients already so I was able to make them immediately! (Lucky me) Thank you so much for these quick, easy, delicious, and healthy cookies!
Kristi Rimkus says
I saw your recipe over on Pinterest. Baking is not my thing, so I Iove a cookie I can make that doesn’t require a lot of fuss.
susan says
How many bars do you cut these into? I added up the calories and for 6 bars they’re over 900 cal each!
Elise says
I usually drop them by the spoonful to make a couple dozen cookies.
Chicory App says
I am a huge chocolate lover and these cookies look amazing! I can’t wait to try these!
Would you be interested in becoming a recipe partner with Chicory?
Tabitha says
Yea! I found this on Pinterest and made them Friday, my hubby was thrilled when he discovered them! Now they’re almost gone, my two boys love them. So yummy!
Esther Nappa says
these sound great! Do you have the nutrients for these.
Julian says
Recipe looks great! Would regular oats (i.e. the kind you need to cook over the stove top) also work?
Elise says
Yes, regular rolled oats should work well – they’ll just be a bit more chewy. 🙂
Sara S. says
These were great! I made a few modifications — I didn’t think it needed a whole 3/4 cup of honey (remember, honey is healthier than white sugar, but it’s still sugar and should be eaten in moderation). I put in 1/2 cup and it was plenty. And next time I think I’ll just do one teaspoon vanilla. Loved these those! Thanks for a great snack idea for my kiddos!
Patty says
What about adding Chia seeds to these? I have everything for these, thank you!!
Tracy says
I am eating mine with a spoon not sure why they did not set? Taste great…..
Michelle D says
I love these type of cookies, but the title is a bit misleading. Honey is a type of sugar and is treated as such in your body. The effect on your blood sugar is only a bit smaller than of effect than that of white sugar.
B. Preston says
Great recipe! Everyone loved it. However, these technically should not be labeled sugar free, but no sugar added, since the honey has quite a bit of sugar in it.
Kasey Smith says
Hello, What is the calorie count per cookie?
They are so yummy, by the way!!!
Liz says
I began making these and realized I didn’t have enough oatmeal. I improvised with a high fiber almond/flax crunchy cereal for the remainder of oatmeal and it was awesome! Thank you for sharing this!
Angela says
Coconut oil is actually not healthy at all. It’s the MOST UNhealthy oil you could consume because it’s made of 100% saturated fats, which is harder for your body to break down and digest. So basically, you’re just eating the worst possible kind of fat for your body and making more fat than decreasing it.
Kylie says
Hi Elise,
I found your site through Pinterest today and tried baking this little gem this evening.
They were so quick and easy and delicious! Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
Kylie x
Karen Little says
These remind me of the no bake cookies that my grandmother used to make that I always LOVED!! I may have missed it but do you have the calorie count per cookie? Thanks!!
Abbie says
anything to sub for the coconut oil or butter? could you sub applesauce?
Elise says
That would be interesting to try. Worst case scenario, your cookies may not set up and you have to press them into a pan and cut into bars after they’re cold OR, add more peanut butter.
Christi says
I thought this was good. For me there was WAY too much honey. The honey really overpowered the flavor of the chocolate and peanut butter, which is usually hard to do. So next time I’m going to try only adding a few tablespoons. I definitely plan on making this again. Thanks for the recipe!!
Elise says
I’m glad you liked it – and sorry the honey was overpowering. You will definitely want to use less if you’re using peanut butter that already has sugar in it. 🙂
Jess says
Sounds tasty by Just an FYI, these aren’t sugar-free. Honey is sugar! It has the same effect on the body whether it’s the white stuff you put i your coffee or the sweet stuff bees make.
Rachel says
Hi Elise, these sound wonderful!! Do you know how many one batch makes?
Thank you!!
Elise says
Anywhere between one and two dozen depending on how large you make them. 🙂
Anna R says
These are not sugar free! Honey is a type of sugar. it is a healthier sugar but diabetics and people who need to watch sugar need to know that they contain sugar. The recipe sounds delicious though.
Michelle says
I want to try these! I use Agave as a sweetener instead of honey. It has a lower glycemic index. Have you tried it? I don’t know if it would make a difference in your recipe. It’s a tiny bit thinner than honey…..
Elise says
I think you may want to use less of it, but it should work pretty well. 🙂
Holly says
Technically these are not sugar free since they have honey in them and honey is sugar. Any suggestions (besides splenda) if I was making this for a diabetic?
Paula Slabbekoorn says
I made these today, and they didn’t set up, it’s been about 2 hours. Any tips? I did no substitutions.
Wendy says
These are so good!! Have to keep them on hand all the time! The best thing is I don’t feel guilty after indulging in a couple 🙂
Bella says
These are great! My friends all loved them.
Debbie D says
From one FARM WIFE to another these things look sinful !!! I was wondering when some body was gonna make those NO BAKE cookies a little bit kinder to my waist line .they look great …..Do you have any problem with them not hardening ? Since you don’t have to boil them . At this point in my 21 day fix diet I would eat them through a straw if they didn’t set up LOL .Thanks for the recipe sister…
Elise says
Hi Debbie! I haven’t, but some others have had to put them in the refrigerator.
Enjoy! And you’re my hero for going through the 21 day fix! 🙂
Lisa says
I absolutely LOVE these! I am, however, trying to control calories & more importantly, carbs…do you have the nutritional breakdown on these? i.e., how many calories, carbs, protein, etc?
Amy says
These are not sugar free. Honey is 55% fructose, and higher in calories then granulated sugar. 22 calories a tsp., to 16 calories a tsp in sugar. Sugar is sugar, processed the same way in the body.
Tangi Wheet says
Hi! I just want to let you know that I made these and they were awesome! Thanks for sharing the recipe.
Elise says
Thanks for sharing Tangi! Glad you liked them!
Brenda says
Could I use real maple syrup instead of honey?
Elise says
Yes, definitely!
Tina says
How long does these cookies last in a sealed container in the refrigerator? I made too many of them (if you can believe that is possible!), and they have been in there about 2 weeks now. BTW, I love these cookies, and they definitely give me my chocolate fix while I’m following a healthy diet!
Elise says
Hmm, I’m not really sure, but there’s a lot of bacteria resistant ingredients in them…
Janet Merz says
Can I use carob powder instead of cocoa, one of my friends love these cookies but wanted a healthier version, they don’t want the 2 cups of sugar the original recipe calls for, so I was excited to try your recipe. They also don’t want the caffeine that’s in reg cocoa. Thank u …Janet
Elise says
It’s been a LOOOONG time since I’ve used carob, so I could be remembering wrongly, but I believe that would work very well. Let me know how they turn out! 🙂
Debbie says
I made these and there delicious, but not sure there going to get hard enough to pick up, may have to eat with spoon. What did I do wrong?
DShazz says
Cool in the fridge and they will harden no problem if using natural peanut butter. If that fails, they are great popped in the freezer too!
lenny face says
maybe you could use rice crispies
Tonya Alexander says
Thanks so much for providing a great tasting No Bake Cookie recipe that I could work with! I recently tried a different “healthier version” recipe and was extremely disappointed however that just made me even more determined to find a recipe that tasted like the original sugar filled version. I like the fact that yours was dairy free even though I’m not lactose intolerant, I think it cooked up nicer because of it not having milk I used Agave syrup instead of Honey and natural chunky peanut butter (since it was all I had in the pantry available). I also noticed in my last failed recipe, the lack of that salty flavor that regular peanut butter provides so I did add a 1/4 tsp of salt to the first 3 ingredients while heating it. I think (for me), this was what it was lacking in the first recipe I tried. Instead of using a 1/2 cup of coconut oil, I used a 1/4 cup of coconut oil and a 1/4 cup of butter. I have to say, these taste absolutely amazing so I thank you for giving me a great start with the ingredients and the amounts that you provided. It made all the difference in the world!!!
DShazz says
These are amazing! I actually ran out of coconut oil, so ended up filling in the rest with tahini, and it was still delicious! Don’t hesitate to make these! Thank you for the easy recipe.
Songbird says
…but honey IS sugar. These aren’t sugar free, they merely use a natural sugar. Please change your wording to more accurately reflect your recipe ingredients.
Carly says
Do you happen to know the nutritional info for these??
Lauren says
My little boy is allergic to peanuts. Have you ever tried this recipe using sunbutter or almond butter? Thanks!
Elise says
Almond butter is really great – yum! I haven’t tried sunbutter in this particular recipe, but I think it would also be great – and probably set up the cookies better than almond butter. 🙂
toastqueen says
I’ll admit I didn’t like these at first – I think the oats need to be cooked in the mixture for a bit? Maybe it’s because I didn’t use gf oats? I don’t think that should make a difference from my experience. BUT, after a few days, these were amazing.
So…..I’m going to try these again but maybe “cook” the mixture longer with the oats in so they’re not so chokey!!!
Thanks!
★★★★
Elise says
I’m sorry you didn’t like them at first!
Old fashioned rolled oats versus quick oats make a HUGE difference, and personally, I don’t care for the thicker, chewier rolled oats – they’re hard to chew!
Hope that helps! 🙂
Tisha says
My goodness look at all of the negative comments below! I personally LOVE that you have created an alternative to refined sugar cookies! All of these other trolls who complained about you “misleading” them ignore! Grown people, who are aware that they are diabetic should know when to stay away from a recipe if they cannot even have honey in place of sugar. There will always be the ones who are so miserable that that they have to troll every recipe on the internet just to point out that there is “sugar” in a recipe. I think these are great! This comes from a bariatric patient who does not deprive herself and chooses wisely among natural and refined desserts!
★★★★★
Elise says
Thanks Tisha! I hope you enjoy them!
Danielle says
What are thw nutritional facts?
Maegan says
In your recipe it says to add the cocoa at the end. In the confusing video though, the cocoa and the honey trade places on when to add them to the recipe. So, which is correct? I’ll be honest, we followed the written recipe and they did not turn out very well.
★
Elise says
It doesn’t really matter where you add the cocoa since you’re not boiling it to soft ball stage like you would in traditional no-bake cookies.
I’m sorry you’re having trouble with the recipe, and I hope that helps!
Chyrl says
Hi Elise. I just made your healthy cookie, and they were very good. I would like to know if you could tell me approximately how many calories are in these cookies?
Lindsey says
These are super tasty! I added some unsweetened coconut and chocolate chips to mine because I had them on hand. So easy and will definitely be a go to recipe for a quick sweet fix. The only issue I have with this recipe is the name. I would not call these healthy just because they use honey and coconut oil. They also are definitely not sugar free. I assume you mean that they are free of processed sugars, but honey is still sugar. But- overall this recipe is a win. Thanks for providing it.
★★★★★
Terrye Davis says
Could these be cooked in microwave?
Tee says
Can these be cooked in the microwave? This is how I do regular no bakes.
★★★★
Elise says
Yes, the only need is to melt the oil and peanut butter, so warming them up in the microwave would work great!
Carolyn says
Yum! I love all things no-bake! And without added sugar sounds even better. Thanks for this healthier option!
lenny face says
I used to make this all the time for my kids when they were younger – the sugar variety. We called them dog terds.
Heaher says
These are the yummiest cookies and sooo easy to make!!! Thank you so much for sharing the recipe:)
★★★★★
Annette says
As a 50-something woman who craves the no-bakes of her youth yet needs them healthier, I want to thank you for this recipe! They are amazingly good. I added some flax meal and a bit of salt. I am addicted. 🙂
★★★★
Elise says
Yay! So glad you like them!
kerala says
Spelt flakes should do the trick. They r hearty n should hold up well. I love to include them in my own homemade muesli mix.
★★★★★
Status n Quotes says
yum, love your cookies I tried to make them at home.
★★★★★
kerala lottery results says
Thanks for this healthier option!
★★★★★
Status n Quotes says
yummy! love to cook it more often.
★★★★★
Stone Wolfsong says
I made these today. While adding the cocoa powder, I thought it was too much so only added 4tbs. Even at that these taste like unsweetened cocoa powder, not a hint of peanut butter. I might try again with no cocoa powder.
Dilia says
What is the calories for this ??
momof3boys says
pregnant and was craving these cookies, but looking for a healthier version. these totally delivered and ALL my kids liked them which is huge. plus some of my kids need gluten free so thats also a plus. do you happen to have the nutrition info??
★★★★★
Margaret says
I just tried this. I really enjoyed it! I thought it tasted so good as a protein-rich breakfast idea, and will definitely make it again. The coconut taste is pretty strong, so next time i try it i will decrease the coconut, and increase the peanut butter – but i feel that is more a personal preference than anything else. (I divided the recipe by 4 to get a smaller batch to try it out, and i did not make them into cookies, i just used it in my breakfast bowl.)
One comment i did have is that you do not say how long to cook things for. I went with my family’s general rule for no-bake, and heated it up to a simmer, let it simmer for about a minute (i actually let my no-bake simmer for about 30-40 seconds because i like my no-bake to be less solid – if you want it more solid, then you would do about a minute). I then took it off the heat by moving to my unused burner and added the oats and vanilla.
I paired it with 1 tbs of almond milk-chia-vanilla overnight pudding and 1/2 cut banana with dusted cinnamon on top.
Thanks so much for the recipe!
★★★★
Elise says
Hi Margaret, with these cookies, you don’t need to simmer them – just melt the oils. This is because unlike traditional no-bake cookies, you’re depending on the oils and peanut butter to set back up as they cool, rather than the sugar to reach a softball stage consistency to make the cookies set.
Also, if you don’t care for the flavor of coconut oil, butter makes an excellent substitute. 🙂
Barb says
I just made these. They were very good. I added some chia seeds.
★★★★★
Cari Conaway says
Thank you for this recipe! Me and My husband LOVE these cookies! I make them at least once a week! Thank you!
Elise says
So glad you like them!
Sophia says
What do I need to do to make these less chocolate….if I put less chocolate in do I need to do anything else to the mix .
Thanks!
★★★★
Elise says
I think just reducing the cocoa powder should be fine.
Suzanne says
These look so good! Does the chocolate set very quickly?
Elise says
Fairly quickly, but not immediately. You can put them in the fridge to speed it up.
Cheryl Mileham says
Need carb count on all recipes
Lisa says
I put the batter in a casserole dish to cut them like brownies. I can’t wait to try them. My fingers taste good! In the refrigerator they go!
Kristi Taylor says
I’ve made this at least 10 times now thru out the last year. It’s so good and everyone that had tried them has me give them the recipe.
★★★★★
Sara says
By my calculation in my food tracking app, these healthy cookies are about 218 calories each. That’s assuming you get 34 from the recipe and use only 1/4 c honey. They are healthier with only natural ingredients but coconut oil and peanut butter, due to their high fat content, raise the calorie count substantially. I share only to make you aware. I believe this is a much better treat then processed cookies or traditional cookies full of flour and sugar.
★★★★
KP says
My husband is obsessed with these cookies. He loves to workout, so I turned these into ‘protein’ cookies by using 6 tbsp chocolate whey protein powder and 2 tbsp cocoa powder (protein powder isn’tas dense as cocoa powder). Instead of natural peanut butter, I use almond butter. Definitely a 10/10.
★★★★★
Shelley says
I added shredded coconut and it was perfect
★★★★★
Chris Shirley says
I did 1/3 cup of almond butter,1/3 cup of cashew buttrt and then 1/3 cup of regular pb in place of the natural pb. My husband loved it
★★★★★
Jenna says
I just made these for the sixth time. This is the easiest (and healthiest!) no bake cookie recipe I have ever come across. Whenever I share these delicious cookies with new friends, they can’t believe they are the “healthy” version. Thank you!
★★★★★
Michelle says
How many cookies does this make?
Karen says
How many does this make? I am trying to figure out points for WW?
Cathy says
I actually have a question. Whats in these that causes them to firm up?
Ally says
This recipe comes out to 3,630 calories total. Macro breakdown is – 300g Carbs – 238g Fat – 93g Protein
If you were to portion this out into a dozen you would be looking at:
1 serving = 1 no bake cookie
302 calories
25g Carbs
20g Fat
8g Protein
Really not a “HEALTHY” recipe. Sugar free does NOT = healthy
Misleading and unethical
★
Ruth says
I used a regular cookie scoop to portion out each cookie and ended up with 26 cookies. 12 cookies would be a very generous portion for each. Using your total calculations and dividing that by 26, one cookie would be 139 calories- 11.5 carbs – 9 grams of fat – 3.5 grams protein. I wouldn’t say these are unhealthy at all. I’d rather my children eat these than a sugar loaded cookie any day of the week. There are a lot of healthy fats and sugars in these, but everything in moderation. Eating 5 of them would no longer be good.
Myra says
These are so easy. And so good.
★★★★★
Korey Rustici says
Super easy and very delicious. I used organic ingredients to keep it clean and I used organic almond butter. Yummy will definitely be keeping this around
★★★★★
Jessica says
Do these cookies have to be kept in the refrigerator? Looks like a yummy recipe but I’m looking for something I can take on a roadtrip!
Juanita says
Thank you for this recipe. My brother who passed away 33 yrs ago loved unbaked cookies and would always get me to make them for him, I also love them but know I don’t want to eat them for all the wrong ingredients in them. So thank you, thank you for YES making it with HEALTHY ingredients! Definitely anything even healthier recipes need to be made into smaller portions and definitely eaten in moderation. ❤️
★★★★★
Greg Goodman says
Can I use slow cooking oats?
★★★★★
Amanda says
Nice sub. Rename it Keto No Bake and no one will complain. No bakes are high fat traditionally too so its the sugar sub I find helpful – and tasty! I think I like these better than the regular version. Very chocolatey.
★★★★★
Carolyn says
Honey is sugar. Each cookie contains 9 grams of sugar. it’s not refined sugar, but sugar nonetheless.
MJ says
Exactly! And fat is fat, whether it’s butter or coconut oil. I wouldn’t necessarily call these healthy that’s for sure. And of course peanut butter is loaded with fat also, so you still get the double whammy of fat.
When I’m craving chocolate I have a bowl of chocolate oatmeal instead, topped with raspberries or strawberries. No fat, no sugar, very chocolately.
Rebecca says
I made these this week and I LOVE them as well! As for all this talk of honey and sugar and calories is just silly. There are like 150 calories in a twix as well as in an avocado – obviously this doesn’t mean the twix is as good for you as the avocado. I only used 1/4 cup honey because i actually ran out but they still tasted delish so if anyone is worried about the honey sugar just cut it down a bit. I think this recipie is fab and I’ll be making more of your recipies in future!!
DShazz says
Fat is not unhealthy…natural fats and sugars are indeed very healthy in moderation. Just like too much oatmeal or fruit would be unhealthy out of moderation. Fat is important for a lot of body development, such as hair growth and keeping you feeling full. These cookies still get a stamp of approval in the cookie world for what they claim to be–no-bake and without excessive sugar.
Shelly says
Is this supposed to be sweetened or unsweetened cocoa powder?