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Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

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Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a refreshing twist on the classic no-bake treat. With a burst of citrusy lemon flavor and the wholesome texture of oats, these cookies are perfect for warm days or when you need a quick dessert without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes with no baking required.
  • Bright and Refreshing: The zesty lemon flavor makes these cookies stand out.
  • Healthy Option: Oats and natural flavors make this a more wholesome treat.
  • No Oven Needed: Perfect for summer or busy days.
  • Customizable: Add mix-ins like coconut or white chocolate for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Quick-cooking oats
  • Granulated sugar
  • Butter
  • Milk
  • Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Lemon zest
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt
  • Optional: Shredded coconut, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

Directions

this recipe

1. Prep the Ingredients

  1. Measure out the oats and set aside. Zest and juice the lemons.

2. Make the Lemon Mixture

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
  2. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.

3. Mix the Cookies

  1. Add the oats to the saucepan and stir until fully combined. If using optional mix-ins like shredded coconut or white chocolate chips, fold them in now.

4. Form the Cookies

  1. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping them into cookies.
  2. Let the cookies cool and set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or chill in the refrigerator for faster setting.

5. Serve

  1. Once set, enjoy your cookies or store them for later!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes about 12–16 cookies, depending on size
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
  • Setting Time: 20–30 minutes

Variations

  • Coconut Lemon Cookies: Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
  • White Chocolate Lemon Cookies: Mix in white chocolate chips for added sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
  • Extra Tangy: Add a bit more lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract for bolder flavor.
  • Healthier Version: Substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup and use unsweetened almond milk.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

1. Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, but the texture will be chewier. You can pulse rolled oats in a food processor for a finer consistency.

2. Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Absolutely! Replace butter with coconut oil and milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from being too soft?

Ensure the mixture boils for a full minute to help the cookies set properly.

4. Can I add other citrus flavors?

Yes, substitute or combine lemon with lime or orange for a citrus blend.

5. Why aren’t my cookies setting?

This could happen if the mixture didn’t boil long enough. Try chilling the cookies in the refrigerator to firm them up.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but reducing sugar may affect the structure of the cookies. Start by reducing it slightly and see how it works.

7. What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a fine grater or a microplane to remove just the yellow part of the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith.

8. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?

Yes, adjust the size to your preference, but note that larger cookies may take longer to set.

9. Do these cookies travel well?

Yes, once set, they hold their shape well and are great for picnics or lunchboxes.

10. Can I add protein powder to these cookies?

Yes, mix in a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder for a protein boost.

Conclusion

Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that combines bright citrus flavors with the comforting texture of oats. Perfect for any time of year, these cookies are a quick, crowd-pleasing option that you can whip up in no time. Give them a try and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon in every bite!

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Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Bright and zesty, these Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies are the perfect treat for lemon lovers! Made with simple ingredients, they’re easy to whip up and don’t require an oven, making them a great choice for a quick dessert or snack.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 3 cups quick oats
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings:

  • Drizzle of melted white chocolate
  • Additional lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
  2. Cook the Mixture:
    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and milk. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
    • Bring to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Add Lemon Flavor:
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, lemon extract (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  4. Mix in Oats:
    • Stir in the oats and salt until well combined.
  5. Form the Cookies:
    • Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon if desired.
  6. Let Cool:
    • Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For quicker setting, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  7. Optional Topping:
    • Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with additional lemon zest for an extra touch of sweetness and color.

Notes

  • For a softer cookie, use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats.
  • Adjust the lemon flavor by adding more lemon juice or zest to taste.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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