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No Bake Cookies With Pudding – Just Like Grandma Made 'Em

I grew up with a grandma who could whip up a tray of cookies faster than I could say ‘I’m hungry,’ and let me tell you, her no-bake cookies were legendary. The scent of cocoa and peanut butter mingling in the air? It was like a hug for your face. This recipe? It’s the shortcut to that same magic, no oven required, and definitely no stress. Now, here’s the wild part: we’re throwing pudding into the mix. Not because we have to—but because it makes everything richer, smoother, and just a little bit unexpected. Soft, fudgy, and chewy in all the right ways, these are the kind of cookies that disappear off the plate while they’re still cooling. Perfect for last-minute dessert emergencies (we’ve all had 'em), bake sales, or just treating yourself on a Wednesday night, these no bake cookies with pudding will win over kids, grown-ups, and that one neighbor who never compliments anything. You’ll see.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate oats no bake, easy cookie recipes, no bake cookies, no bake cookies with pudding, no bake dessert for kids, pudding cookies, quick dessert
Servings: 24 cookies
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups quick oats
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil and let it bubble for 1 minute, stirring constantly so nothing sticks.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate pudding mix until it’s smooth and glossy.
  4. Add peanut butter and vanilla. Stir until fully melted and combined.
  5. Dump in the oats and mix until everything is coated and gooey.
  6. Scoop spoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment-lined trays and let them cool for 30 minutes until set.