No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies
Cookies have a way of bringing comfort, joy, and a touch of sweetness to any moment. While most people think of cookies as something that requires baking, mixing bowls, and oven timers, there’s a whole other world of no-bake cookies that are just as delicious, quicker to prepare, and perfect for when you don’t want to heat up the oven.
These No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are chewy, rich, sweet, and lightly salty — the perfect combination for a satisfying treat. They bring together the classic goodness of oats, the buttery sweetness of butterscotch pudding, and the irresistible drizzle of chocolate and caramel. Best of all, they’re made in minutes and require no baking at all.
If you’ve been searching for a quick dessert that looks fancy but takes minimal effort, this recipe will be your new go-to. Let’s dive into the ingredients, method, tips, and serving ideas for this no-bake wonder.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Needed – Perfect for summer or busy days.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich Caramel Flavor – Thanks to butterscotch pudding mix and a buttery base.
- Great for Sharing – Makes a big batch, ideal for parties, school snacks, or gifting.
- Kid-Friendly – Fun for kids to help mix and scoop.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup butter (1 1/2 sticks)
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 3.4 ounces instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 3 1/2 cups quick oats
- Dash salt, to taste
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional for garnish:
- Caramel drizzle
- Sea salt flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for about 2 minutes, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butterscotch pudding mix until smooth. Add a dash of salt to enhance the caramel flavor.
Step 4: Mix in the Oats
Stir in the quick oats until fully coated with the caramel mixture. The oats should be evenly distributed, creating a thick and sticky cookie base.
Step 5: Scoop the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly if desired.
Step 6: Add Chocolate
Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of the warm cookies so they melt slightly and stick. You can leave them as chunks or swirl them in for a marbled effect.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature until firm. If you’re in a hurry, place them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to speed up the setting process.
Tips for Success
- Use Quick Oats – Old-fashioned oats will be too chewy and won’t bind as well.
- Don’t Over-Boil – Boiling too long will make the cookies dry and crumbly.
- Add the Chocolate at the Right Time – Sprinkle the chips while the cookies are still warm so they stick, but not so hot that they completely melt away.
- Salt Matters – A little pinch of sea salt brings out the caramel flavor beautifully.
Variations to Try
- Peanut Butter Twist – Add 1/2 cup peanut butter to the base for extra richness.
- Nutty Crunch – Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
- White Chocolate Version – Swap semi-sweet chips for white chocolate for a sweeter finish.
- Extra Caramel – Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Festive Toppings – Add holiday sprinkles, crushed pretzels, or mini marshmallows.
Serving Suggestions
- Afternoon Snack – Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Dessert Table Treat – Perfect addition to a holiday or party cookie spread.
- Gift Idea – Package in a jar or tin and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present.
- Lunchbox Treat – A quick grab-and-go snack for school or work.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep chilled for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw before serving.
Nutrition Information (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
(Nutrition varies by portion size and added toppings.)
Why No Bake Cookies Are a Game-Changer
No bake cookies are ideal for anyone who loves homemade desserts but doesn’t want the hassle of baking. They’re quick, versatile, and great for experimenting with flavors. With the salted caramel twist in this recipe, you get a luxurious cookie that tastes like something from a bakery — without ever turning on the oven.
Final Thoughts
These No Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are proof that you don’t need an oven to make something truly special. Chewy, sweet, a little salty, and packed with flavor, they’re a treat that works for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for your family, bringing them to a party, or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee, these cookies will quickly become one of your favorites.
So, grab your saucepan, a few simple ingredients, and whip up a batch today — because life is always better with cookies.
