Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies: Effortless, Chewy, and Delicious
Effortless assembly yields decadent bites of creamy hazelnut and crisp oat clusters.
Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies
Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies are a delightful combination of chewy oats, crisp cornflakes, rich chocolate chips, and the unmistakable creamy taste of Nutella. This decadent treat brings together the luscious flavors of chocolate and hazelnut, with just the right amount of crunch and an irresistible sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. Whether you’re looking for a festive holiday cookie or a quick weekday indulgence, these cookies are sure to satisfy — and best of all, you don’t even need to turn on your oven.
Why No-Bake Cookies are a Must-Have Treat
With the popularity of cookie exchanges, holiday gifting, and quick homemade desserts, no-bake cookies shine for their ease, speed, and crowd-pleasing flavor. They’re ideal when you want to whip up something special without involving an oven or elaborate decorating. Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies fit these requirements perfectly:
- Quick Preparation: Make a big batch in under 30 minutes.
- No Oven Required: Perfect for summer days, busy schedules, or sharing oven space with other treats.
- Versatile Flavors: Chocolate, hazelnut, oats, and cornflakes offer a balance of flavors and textures.
- Easy Gifting: These cookies package beautifully and travel well for gifting friends, neighbors, or teachers.
Ingredients for Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies
The ingredient list for these cookies is charmingly simple, featuring staples that you may already have on hand:
- Nutella: The hero ingredient, bringing chocolate and hazelnut richness.
- Chocolate Chips: For an extra punch of chocolate and subtle melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Quick Oats: Adds wholesome chewiness; quick oats meld beautifully into the mixture.
- Cornflakes: Supplies crispiness — the “crunch” factor that sets these cookies apart.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps the cookies set.
- Corn Syrup: Provides necessary binding and just the right chew.
- Hazelnut Extract (optional): Boosts the Nutella flavor; can be substituted with vanilla extract.
- Kosher Salt: For balance in the mixture.
- Flaky Sea Salt (such as fleur de sel): Sprinkled on top for a finishing touch that brightens each bite.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies
Follow these steps for perfect cookies every time. The process is fast, so read through before starting—and have all your ingredients measured and ready for smooth assembly.
- Prepare Your Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine quick oats, cornflakes, and chocolate chips. Set aside.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add Nutella, granulated sugar, and corn syrup.
- Stir and bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil. (It should bubble vigorously.)
- Final Flavor Touch:
- Remove from heat immediately once boiling.
- Quickly stir in hazelnut extract (or vanilla) and kosher salt.
- Combine and Mix:
- Pour the hot Nutella mixture over the oats, cornflakes, and chocolate chips.
- Stir rapidly and thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated in the chocolatey goodness. (This counts as your workout for the day!)
- Form the Cookies:
- While mixture is warm, drop spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) onto waxed or parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Shape into rounds if desired. Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with flaky sea salt.
- Cool and Set:
- Let cookies cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before packaging or serving.
Tip:
To package for gifts, layer cookies between waxed paper in a tin or airtight container to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions & Customizations
This recipe is flexible and works well with substitutions or additions to suit your preferences or pantry:
- Oats: Both quick and old-fashioned rolled oats work. For slightly more chew, use old-fashioned oats.
- Hazelnut Extract: Optional. Use vanilla extract or even almond for variety.
- Cornflakes: Substitute with crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies) for a different kind of crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate chips; mini chips melt faster.
- Nutella: Other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or even peanut butter can be used for variety (flavor will change).
- For Nut Allergies: Use a chocolate spread that’s nut-free and double the chocolate chips. Omit hazelnut extract.
What others are reading
Why Sea Salt Makes the Difference
Don’t skip the finishing sprinkle! A touch of flaky sea salt or fleur de sel on freshly dropped cookies intensifies the chocolate flavor and offsets sweetness, providing a gourmet finish. The contrast between gooey chocolate and sharp, crunchy salt creates layers of flavor and keeps guests coming back for another bite.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days. Separate layers with wax or parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Gifting/Travel: These cookies hold up well and make excellent edible gifts during holiday season or as party favors.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for several hours before serving.
- With Coffee: Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies pair beautifully with coffee or espresso for a rich afternoon treat.
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies Every Time
- Work Quickly: Once the syrup is poured over the base, everything needs to be mixed and portioned before the mixture sets.
- Prepare Surfaces: Line baking sheets with wax or parchment paper before starting. This avoids scrambling for parchment with sticky hands mid-process.
- Spoon for Shape: Use a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons) for uniform size and a professional look.
- Mixes for Added Crunch: Try stirring in toasted hazelnuts, chopped almonds, or dried fruit for even more texture variation.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you master the basic Nutella Oat Crunch formula, experiment with:
- Cranberry Crunch: Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries for a tart-sweet bite.
- Espresso Hazelnut: Stir in 1 teaspoon espresso powder with the syrup for a mocha twist.
- Coconut Delight: Sprinkle toasted shaving coconut on top along with the sea salt.
- Double Chocolate: Use mini chocolate chips in the base and drizzle melted chocolate over finished cookies.
When and How to Serve No-Bake Cookies
Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies are wonderfully versatile. Consider these occasions:
- Holiday Cookie Trays: Brighten up any assortment with these chewy, glossy, sea salt-finished rounds.
- Party Favors: Place in clear bags and tie with ribbon for grab-and-go treats.
- Everyday Indulgence: Keep a batch on hand for late-night cravings or lunchbox surprises.
- Teacher/Neighbor Gifts: Impress with homemade cookies that look and taste bakery-worthy—but take just minutes to make.
Printable Recipe Card
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Nutella (or chocolate-hazelnut spread) | 1 cup |
| Chocolate Chips | 3/4 cup |
| Quick Oats | 2 cups |
| Cornflakes | 2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Corn Syrup (light) | 1/2 cup |
| Hazelnut Extract (or vanilla extract) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Kosher Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Flaky Sea Salt (for topping) | To taste |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes. Old-fashioned oats will make the cookies chewier and heartier. If you prefer a softer, more uniform bite, stick with quick oats.
Is hazelnut extract essential?
No. Hazelnut extract is optional but recommended for an extra boost of flavor. Vanilla or almond extract can be substituted.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can try substituting with honey or golden syrup, but note that this may slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the final cookie.
Can these cookies be made dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based chocolate spread for a dairy-free version. Always check ingredient labels to ensure compliance.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking together?
Layer baked cookies between sheets of wax or parchment paper in a storage container to avoid sticking, especially during warm weather.
How long will these cookies keep?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. Always let cookies come to room temperature for best flavor and texture once thawed.
Related No-Bake Cookie Ideas
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars: Another speedy, crowd-pleasing bite for peanut butter fans.
- Classic No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies: Use cocoa and peanut butter for a fudgy, nostalgic taste.
- No-Bake Coconut Bites: Add shredded coconut to your favorite no-bake base for tropical flair.
Final Thoughts: The Magic of No-Bake Cookies
Nutella Oat Crunch No-Bake Cookies encapsulate everything we love about homemade treats: bold flavors, textures for days, and effortless assembly. Whether you’re filling holiday tins or satisfying a craving, this recipe delivers consistent, spectacular results in less time than it takes to preheat your oven. Sprinkle on the sea salt, pour a cup of coffee, and enjoy!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a100397/nutella-oat-crunch-no-bake-cookies/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a39532108/no-bake-chocolate-oatmeal-cookie-recipe/
- https://tastykitchen.com/recipes/desserts/nutella-oat-crunch-no-bake-cookies/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g46043549/no-bake-cookies/
- https://www.aol.com/doesnt-easier-no-bake-cookie-220000879.html
- https://www.bakeat350.net/2018/12/nutella-oat-crunch-no-bake-cookies.html
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