Healthy No-Bake Cookies

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 is such a great binder, and source of protein! …But, it’s also a major allergen. Bummer, huh? The good news is, you can substitute another nut butter (almond is a favorite!) where this recipe calls for peanut butter, or head over and try our (Oh so delicious!) healthy no-bake almond joy cookies instead.

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

Print Recipe

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • 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

1. Note: You can use regular peanut butter – but of course, that will make your cookies reduced sugar rather than sugar free.
2. Combine first four ingredients in a sauce pan and warm gently on stove top.*
3. Next, add in the vanilla, oatmeal, and stir well.
4. 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.
5. 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!