No Bake Preacher Cookies

– 2 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 cups quick-cooking oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt (if you’re using unsalted butter)

1. Lay out some wax paper or parchment on your countertops for the cookies to cool on later – this bit of preparation will make it all the easier once your sweet mixture is ready.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir gently over medium heat until everything is nicely melted together.

3. Allow the mixture to come to a rolling boil for about a minute – but mind that pot, you don’t want to scorch your mixture.

4. Remove your saucepan from the heat. Now, it’s time to stir in the oats, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and that pinch of salt until it’s all wonderfully combined.

5. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop the mixture onto your prepared paper, leaving enough room between each cookie for setting.

6. Let them rest until they are firm and cool to the touch, which usually takes about 30 minutes but patience is a virtue, sugar.

7. Once firm, invite everyone to dig in and watch them smile as they taste tradition and simplicity at its finest.

– For a touch of the holiday spirit, add a half teaspoon of cinnamon or swap vanilla for almond extract.
– Not a fan of peanut butter? Use almond butter or skip it entirely for a simpler chocolate-oatie experience.
– If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try replacing part of it with honey – just be prepared for a slightly softer cookie.
– Remember to measure your ingredients with love, and don’t rush the cooling process; it gives you a moment to sip your coffee and ponder the simple things in life.