Introduction
There’s nothing quite as delightful as a sweet treat that requires no baking, and these Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a shining example! Bursting with the zesty brightness of lemon and the wholesome goodness of oats, these cookies are a perfect pick-me-up for any occasion. Each bite offers a chewy texture and a refreshing tang that makes them irresistibly delicious. And the best part? They come together in mere minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 12 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the optional shredded coconut and chopped nuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms, ensuring that the oats are well-coated and everything is blended seamlessly.
- With clean hands or using a spoon, scoop out portions of the dough and shape them into cookie-like rounds.
- Place the formed cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for setting.
- Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes, allowing them to firm up and develop their flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can be enjoyed for up to a week. Although, let’s be honest, they likely won’t last that long!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your cookies! You can switch up the nut butter for your favorite variety, such as peanut butter or cashew butter, to suit your taste. Additionally, adjusting the sweetness with the honey or maple syrup allows you to tailor the cookies to your preference.
Cooking Techniques
No baking is required for this recipe, which keeps it simple and fun! The key technique is to thoroughly mix the ingredients to ensure an evenly distributed flavor throughout the cookies. Also, be generous with the lemon zest — it’s where a lot of the bright, citrusy flavor comes from!
FAQ
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey for a vegan option.
How should I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
These Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are not only simple to whip up but also provide a delightful burst of flavor that will brighten your day. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to these zesty little bites of joy!