Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Bake Horse Cookies are a fun, quick, and easy treat that’s both delicious and nutritious. Despite the name, these cookies aren’t for horses—they’re people-friendly and inspired by the wholesome ingredients often found in horse treats, like oats, peanut butter, and molasses. Perfect for snack time or a rustic-themed party, these chewy cookies come together in minutes with no oven required.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
old-fashioned oatssmooth peanut buttermolassesbrown sugarsaltvanilla extractmilkchopped nuts or seeds (optional)
directions
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, peanut butter, molasses, milk, and salt.
Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Add oats (and optional nuts or seeds), mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Scoop the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray using a spoon or cookie scoop, shaping into small round cookies.
Let them cool at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 cookies.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooling time: 30-45 minutesTotal time: 40-55 minutes
Variations
Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Mix in shredded coconut for added texture.
Use almond or sunflower seed butter as a peanut-free alternative.
Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.
storage/reheating
Store No Bake Horse Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.Refrigerate for up to 10 days for firmer cookies.They do not require reheating—just enjoy them straight from the container!
FAQs
Are these cookies for horses?
No, these are inspired by horse treats but are made for human consumption.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
No, but refrigeration helps them stay firmer longer.
Can I use honey instead of molasses?
Yes, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Are these suitable for kids?
Absolutely, they’re a great, no-fuss snack for kids.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, it adds a nice texture if you like a bit of crunch.
What type of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned oats work best for texture.
Are they overly sweet?
No, the sweetness is balanced by the nutty flavor.
Do I need a stove?
Yes, a quick stovetop step is needed to melt and mix the ingredients.
Conclusion
No Bake Horse Cookies offer a charming blend of simplicity, nutrition, and nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a fun baking activity without the oven, or a treat that feels homemade and hearty, these cookies check all the boxes. Give them a try—you might find yourself making them again and again!
PrintNo Bake Horse Cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert/Cookie
- Method: No‑Bake Assembly
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These adorable No‑Bake Horse Cookies are fun, kid‑friendly treats perfect for horse‑themed parties or race day events, requiring no oven and minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 12 oblong Milano (or similar) cookies
- 12 mini Nilla wafers
- 3 strands rope licorice (for mane)
- 1 small Tootsie Roll (for ears)
- 24 candy eyes
- Brown or white frosting (with star tip)
- Black food‑coloring pen or black writing‑tip frosting
Instructions
- Set up your work space. Pipe a small amount of frosting to a corner of your workspace for easy access.
- Use the black food‑coloring pen to draw a smiling face on each mini Nilla wafer.
- Attach each decorated wafer to the curved bottom of a Milano cookie with a dab of frosting.
- Cut the licorice into 3–4 inch lengths. Wrap around the mid‑section of the cookie as the horse’s mane, securing the ends with frosting behind.
- Trim excess licorice as needed.
- Cut the Tootsie Roll into small triangular pieces. Roll between your fingers to shape triangular ears.
- Attach the ears to the opposite end of the Milano cookie using a small dab of frosting.
- Pipe a tuft of “hair” between the ears using frosting and a star tip.
- Place two candy eyes beneath the ears on each cookie.
- Allow frosting to set before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use any oblong cookie if Milano cookies aren’t available.
- Rope licorice comes in peel‑apart varieties—any color works.
- Substitute black writing‑tip frosting if you don’t have a food‑safe pen.
- Let cookies sit for 10–15 minutes so frosting firms up.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 101 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 104 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 4 mg
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