No Bake Oatmeal Scotchies

If you’re a fan of no-bake cookies and adore the sweet, rich flavor of oatmeal scotchies, then these No Bake Oatmeal Scotchies are your perfect match! This easy recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering delicious cookies packed with butterscotch flavor and ready in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sweet treat to impress your friends, these no-bake cookies are sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butterscotch morsels
• Pinch of salt
• 3 cups quick-cook oatmeal (dry)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter, sugar, and milk. Bring to a boil and let it boil for a complete minute. This step is crucial as it helps the sugar dissolve properly and the mixture to thicken.
2. Add Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and butterscotch morsels. The butterscotch morsels may not fully melt, which is perfectly fine. Stir for about 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Incorporate Oatmeal: Fold the quick-cook oatmeal into the mixture, ensuring that it is well-coated with the butterscotch mixture.
4. Shape the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a large sheet of parchment paper. Shape them into cookies and allow them to set and cool for about 15 minutes.
5. Store and Enjoy: Once the cookies are set, store them in an airtight container. Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make treats!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

• Serve at Room Temperature: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature. The butterscotch flavor is most pronounced and the texture is just right when they are not too cold or too warm.
• Perfect for Parties: They make an excellent addition to any party or gathering. Arrange them on a platter for a delightful treat that’s sure to please guests of all ages.
• Pair with Beverages: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea for a comforting snack experience.

Storage Tips:

• Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. This will help keep them from becoming too dry or crumbly.
• Room Temperature: These cookies can be kept at room temperature for up to one week. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to avoid any condensation inside the container.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: If you want to store them for an even longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations:

1. Nutty Oatmeal Scotchies:
Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the mixture for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. Stir them in along with the oatmeal.

2. Chocolate Oatmeal Scotchies:
For a chocolate twist, replace 1/2 cup of the butterscotch morsels with chocolate chips. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies once they have set.

3. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Scotchies:
Incorporate 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter into the saucepan with the butter, sugar, and milk. This will give your cookies a delicious peanut butter flavor.

4. Coconut Oatmeal Scotchies:
Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the mixture for a tropical touch. The coconut adds a chewy texture and enhances the overall flavor.

5. Spiced Oatmeal Scotchies:
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into the oatmeal mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

6. Dried Fruit Oatmeal Scotchies:
Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots for added sweetness and texture.

7. Salted Butterscotch Oatmeal Scotchies:
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before they set to balance the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.

8. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies:
Use gluten-free quick-cooking oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

9. Vegan Oatmeal Scotchies:
Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk alternative. Ensure the butterscotch morsels are vegan-friendly or replace them with dairy-free chocolate chips.

10. Mini Oatmeal Scotchies:
For bite-sized treats, use a mini cookie scoop to drop the dough onto parchment paper. They will set quickly and be perfect for snacking or parties.

11. Chocolate Oatmeal Scotchies: Substitute butterscotch morsels with semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.

12. Nutty Oatmeal Scotchies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the mixture for extra crunch and richness.

13. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Scotchies: Mix in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter with the butter, sugar, and milk for a delightful peanut butter and butterscotch combo.

14. Coconut Oatmeal Scotchies: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to add a tropical twist to your cookies.

15. Spiced Oatmeal Scotchies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a hint of warmth and spice.

16. Dried Fruit Oatmeal Scotchies: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots, for added sweetness and chewiness.

17. Mint Oatmeal Scotchies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies to the mixture for a refreshing minty flavor.

18. White Chocolate Oatmeal Scotchies: Replace butterscotch morsels with white chocolate chips for a creamy and sweet variation.

19. Maple Oatmeal Scotchies: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a rich, maple-flavored treat.

20. Espresso Oatmeal Scotchies: Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the mixture for a coffee-flavored twist.

FAQs:

1. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cook oats?
Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats, but the texture of the cookies might be chewier and less uniform. Quick cook oats are preferred for a smoother consistency.

2. How do I store No Bake Oatmeal Scotchies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze No Bake Oatmeal Scotchies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. What can I use instead of butterscotch morsels?
You can substitute butterscotch morsels with chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor.

5. Can I make these cookies with less sugar?
You can reduce the amount of sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it might affect the texture and sweetness of the cookies.

6. How do I know when the mixture is ready to be dropped onto the parchment paper?
The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped onto parchment paper. It should not be runny or too soft.

7. Can I add more mix-ins to the cookies?
Yes, you can add additional mix-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut. Just fold them in along with the oatmeal.

8. What should I do if the mixture is too runny?
If the mixture is too runny, you can add a little more oatmeal to thicken it. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the moisture.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter. However, it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.

10. Why are my cookies sticking to the parchment paper?
If your cookies are sticking, ensure that the parchment paper is smooth and not wrinkled. Additionally, let the cookies cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper.