Name: Irresistible No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 of salt to taste; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup toffee chips; Sea salt, for sprinkling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate fix for last-minute dessert needs or lazy day cravings. It’s no-bake, meaning there’s no oven involved and cleanup is minimal. The combination of butterscotch pudding, oats, and toffee creates an indulgent caramel flavor with irresistible texture. Perfect for potlucks, holiday trays, or just satisfying your sweet tooth on a quiet night in.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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 of salt to taste
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup toffee chips

Directions

Prepare for Baking:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
- Measure out the oats and set aside.
- Place the chocolate chips in the freezer to prevent early melting.
Cook the Caramel Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, a dash of salt, and evaporated milk.
- Stir frequently and bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat. Boil for 30 seconds.
Mix in Oats and Pudding:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the oats and dry butterscotch pudding mix.
- Stir thoroughly and let the mixture cool slightly for a few minutes.
Add Chocolate and Toffee:
- Quickly add the frozen chocolate chips and toffee chips to the warm cookie mixture.
- Stir gently just enough to combine—avoid overmixing to keep the chips from fully melting.
Form Cookies:
- Use a spoon to drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared parchment paper.
- Sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt on each cookie before they cool.
Let Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the cookies to cool and set for at least 15–30 minutes.
- Enjoy your delicious no-bake creation!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds for extra texture.
White Chocolate Twist: Swap the semi-sweet chips for white chocolate for a creamier flavor.
Espresso Boost: Stir in 1 tsp of instant espresso powder for a mocha kick.
Coconut Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical edge.
Spiced Version: Add 1/2 tsp of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 10 days.

Freezing: Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but you can microwave them for 5–10 seconds if you’d like them slightly warm.

FAQs

How long do these cookies take to set?

They typically set in 15–30 minutes at room temperature.

Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, but the texture will be chewier and slightly denser.

What if I don’t have butterscotch pudding mix?

You can substitute with vanilla pudding mix, though the caramel flavor will be less intense.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not by default. To make them gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and pudding mix.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to work quickly when mixing in the chips so they don’t melt too much.

Why freeze the chocolate chips?

Freezing helps them retain shape when mixed into the warm dough.

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

No, it will make the cookies overly sweet and sticky. Stick to evaporated milk for best results.

Do I need to refrigerate these cookies to set?

No, room temperature is sufficient. Refrigeration is optional but can speed up the setting process.

Can I skip the toffee chips?

Yes, but they add a delicious crunch. You can also replace them with chopped caramel candies.

Are these good for holiday cookie trays?

Yes! They’re festive, rich, and hold their shape well for gifting or sharing.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Cookies are a decadent, quick-fix dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a sweet bite after dinner, these cookies offer caramel goodness in every chewy, salty-sweet mouthful. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular in your treat rotation.