Go Back

Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

There’s something undeniably magical about combining the bright, citrusy burst of lemon with the wholesome chewiness of oats. These Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are the perfect example of a treat that’s refreshing, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. No oven? No problem! This recipe is as fuss-free as it gets, making it ideal for busy days, warm-weather kitchens, or those spontaneous dessert cravings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter 1 ½ sticks: Adds richness and helps bind the mixture.
  • ⅔ cup milk: Whole or 2% works best for creaminess.
  • 1 small box 3.4 oz lemon instant pudding mix: The secret to that tangy lemon flavor and smooth texture.
  • 3 ½ cups quick oats: For chewiness and wholesome goodness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and balances the citrusy tan

Equipment

  • You’ll need just a few basic tools:
  • A large saucepan.
  • A wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring.
  • Wax paper or parchment paper to line your baking sheet.
  • A cookie scoop or tablespoon for portioning.
  • That’s it! Minimal cleanup, maximum reward.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Base Mixture
  2. Start by combining the sugar, butter, and milk in a large saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts completely and the sugar dissolves.
  3. Boil the Mixture
  4. Once the mixture is smooth, increase the heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Let it boil for exactly 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. This step is crucial for the cookies to set properly.
  5. Add Flavor and Texture
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then, whisk in the lemon instant pudding mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  7. Incorporate the Oats
  8. Gradually fold in the quick oats, making sure they’re evenly coated with the lemon mixture. The oats will absorb the flavor and help the cookies hold their shape.
  9. Shape the Cookies
  10. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Try to make them uniform in size for even setting.
  11. Cool and Set
  12. Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. As they cool, they’ll firm up into delicious, chewy bites.

Notes

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies
Don’t Skip the Boil Time: Boiling for exactly 5 minutes ensures the cookies set properly. Too little time, and they’ll be sticky; too much, and they might turn crumbly.
Use Quick Oats: These absorb the lemon mixture best. Avoid using old-fashioned oats, as they won’t soften as well.
Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you’re a true lemon lover, add a little lemon zest to the mixture for an extra zing.
Texture Preference: If you want a firmer cookie, refrigerate them once they’ve set.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!