Description
These Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a zesty twist on the classic no-bake oatmeal cookie. With a bright lemon flavor, a chewy texture, and a touch of sweetness, these cookies come together in minutes and require no baking. They’re perfect for a quick treat or a refreshing dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions
-
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Zest and juice the lemon, then set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This helps dissolve the sugar and creates a syrupy consistency.
3. Add Lemon Flavor:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, salt, and honey (if using). Stir well until fully combined.
4. Mix in the Oats:
- Add the rolled oats to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the lemony syrup mixture. The oats should be fully combined with the syrup.
5. Form the Cookies:
- Drop spoonfuls of the oat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to make even portions.
- Press down gently on each mound of dough to shape them into cookie-like discs.
6. Let the Cookies Set:
- Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they firm up and set. They will become chewy and hold their shape.
7. Serve:
- Once the cookies are set, serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- Lemon Zest: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon zest. It gives the cookies a refreshing citrus punch.
- Texture: These cookies will have a chewy texture, similar to traditional no-bake oatmeal cookies, but with a tangy lemon flavor.
- Optional Add-ins: You can add a handful of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or white chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for the syrup mixture)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg