Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies are a total game changer for busy moms who need something quick, sweet, and allergy-friendly. Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, prepping a classroom treat, or just trying to avoid turning on the oven, this easy no-bake cookie recipe checks all the boxes. Soft, chewy, and made with simple pantry staples, they’re perfect for nut-free schools, summer snacks, or anytime you’re short on time but still want a homemade treat.
In our house, these nut-free no-bake cookies disappear fast, and I have a feeling your family will love them too.
Looking for more quick ideas? Check out this collection of 20+ easy no-bake desserts moms can make in minutes — perfect for any celebration!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card
Nut Free No Bake Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 3 cups quick-cooking rolled oats uncooked
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with waxed paper, parchment, or non-stick foil.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Boil for 3 full minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in oats until evenly coated.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let cookies set at room temperature for 45 minutes, or chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
- Once firm, remove from paper and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add chocolate chips, sprinkles, coconut, or a dash of vanilla extract.
- For a mocha twist, stir in 1/4 tsp espresso powder.
What You’ll Need to Make No-Bake Cookies
These cookies come together with just a few basics, nothing fancy, and probably already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to make these nut-free, peanut-free no-bake classics:
- Granulated sugar: Helps everything stick and gives that signature chewy bite. It’s best not to cut back or swap with a sugar alternative, this one needs the real deal.
- Unsalted butter: Since there’s no peanut butter in this version, butter steps in to add richness and bring the flavors together. Salted works too if that’s what you’ve got.
- Milk: Use whatever’s in your fridge, regular, oat, or soy milk all work here. Totally flexible!
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is where the deep chocolate flavor comes from. No melted chocolate needed!
- Quick-cooking oats: The star of the show! They give the cookies their texture. You can sub in gluten-free oats if needed.
These nut-free no-bake cookies are ideal for school snacks: the CDC recommends strict nut-free policies and allergen-free meals to protect the 1 in 13 children affected by food allergies in the US ogden.cps.edu.
Steps to Make Nut Free No Bake Cookies
Here’s how to whip up a batch of these chewy, chocolatey Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies:
Scoop and set
Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto your lined tray. Let your Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies firm up — 45 minutes on the counter or 15 in the fridge.
Get prepped
Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment. It’ll make cleanup a breeze.
Make your cookie base
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, butter, milk, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Boil it right
Once it’s bubbling, keep it boiling for 3 full minutes — this step is key for getting your Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies to set just right.
Mix in the oats
Take the pan off the heat and stir in the quick oats until everything is combined.
What Makes These Nut Free No Bake Cookies Special?
If you’ve ever skipped a cookie recipe because of nuts — or had to navigate classroom allergy rules — you know how tough it can be to find a treat that’s both safe and delicious. That’s where these Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies really shine.
Unlike traditional no-bakes that rely on peanut butter, this version swaps in sunflower seed butter, so it’s totally nut-free but still rich and creamy. You still get that chocolatey, chewy cookie texture — just without the allergens. And because there’s no baking involved, they’re perfect for summer snacks, after-school treats, or last-minute party trays.
They’re a go-to in my kitchen anytime I need something fast, allergy-friendly, and guaranteed to please even picky eaters.
Equipment You’ll Need
The beauty of these Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies is how low-effort they are. No mixers, no baking sheets, no special gadgets — just simple tools from your kitchen drawer:
- Medium saucepan: For melting and boiling the cookie base.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring the mixture and scraping every last bit.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Keep things consistent — especially with the oats and butter.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper: Where the cookies cool and set.
- Cookie scoop or regular spoon: To portion out the dough (kids love helping with this part!).
That’s it, just everyday tools for a recipe that’s anything but ordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA)
Are Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies safe for school?
Yes! Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies are completely nut-free, making them ideal for lunchboxes, class parties, or nut-free school zones. Just be sure to check your oats and sunflower butter for nut-free facility processing.
Can I freeze Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies?
Absolutely. These Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies freeze beautifully! Let them set first, then store in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’re great straight from the freezer on hot days.
Can I use dairy-free butter or milk?
Yes, this nut-free no-bake cookie recipe is super flexible. Swap in plant-based butter or non-dairy milk like oat, soy, or almond (just skip almond for school-safe versions).
What can I use instead of sunflower seed butter?
If you’re out of sunflower seed butter, soy nut butter or cookie butter both work. Keep it nut-free if you’re making these Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies for school or daycare.
Do I have to boil the mixture for exactly 3 minutes?
Yes! Boiling is key to helping your Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies set properly. Less time = sticky cookies. More time = dry and crumbly. Set a timer and you’ll get it just right.
Tips for the Perfect Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies
- Boil the mixture for exactly 3 minutes: This step gives Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies their perfect texture. Don’t skip it!
- Use quick oats, not old-fashioned: Quick oats blend best in no-bake recipes and give your Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies that classic chew.
- Stir well before scooping: Even mixing means even cookies — especially important with nut-free no-bake cookie batter.
- Chill to speed things up: Pop your tray in the fridge and your Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies will be ready in 15 minutes flat.
- Store in an airtight container: These cookies stay soft for days and freeze well, too. Perfect for making a big batch of Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies ahead of time.
I hope you and your kiddos love these Nut-Free No-Bake Cookies as much as we do — they’ve saved snack time more times than I can count! Whether you’re packing them in lunchboxes, sharing them at school, or just sneaking one with your coffee, they’re a sweet little win for busy days.
If you liked this recipe, you’ll love Healthy No Bake Apple Pie Energy Balls — and don’t miss No Bake Nutella Fudge too!
