These 10-minute no-bake cookies are the perfect warm weather treat. [Photos by Kim Gehling]

I visited the library this week and, as always, I gravitated toward the cookbooks. This is one recipe that caught my attention, and I was able to try it out this week.

Throwing ingredients in a saucepan and cooking them on the stovetop is a real shortcut to making a batch of cookies. These cookies are true to their name. Once the ingredients are prepared, they are ready in just ten minutes.

One of the reasons I selected this recipe to try was the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, which is a favorite in our household. The cookies have just the right texture and flavor to satisfy a sweet craving. They are soft, chewy and rich without being too sweet.

I also appreciated that the ingredients are pantry staples that I usually have on hand. That makes this recipe perfect for those times when you want a homemade treat but do not feel like making a trip to the grocery store. It comes together quickly and does not require any special equipment.

The whole family tried these out and I got nothing but rave reviews. They are easy to make and the family really liked them. That is a perfect combination and a good indication that you should give them a try too.

From our kitchen to yours — enjoy!

10-Minute Chocolate No-Bake Cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 3 T. unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ c. (1 stick) butter, cut into pieces
  • ½ c. milk
  • ¾ c. smooth peanut butter
  • 1 t. vanilla extract
  • 3 c. rolled oats

Instructions

–Prepare sheets of foil on the counter for dropping the cookies once mixed.
–In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and milk. Heat over high heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture comes to a boil.
–Once boiling, set a timer for 2 minutes and continue stirring while the mixture bubbles vigorously.
–Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peanut butter until melted, about 2 minutes.
– Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the oats and mix until fully combined. Add slightly more milk, if needed.
–Drop the mixture by heaping tablespoonfuls onto the prepared foil.
–Let the cookies set for 20–25 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

.