Ben's No Bakes

I know most of those participating in the Cookie Exchange at Sara's are sharing their favorite Christmas time recipes. Me too! You see, in Argentina it is HOT at Christmas! Usually up in the 90s which means this southern girl does NOT want to turn the oven on. So what's a cookie-lovin' girl to do? Make No Bakes, of course!

Now some of you may remember my battle with the No Bakes last year (I finally succeeded on my 6th attempt). But today I'm sharing a different recipe, one that Ben Parker gave me when he visited a couple months ago. He's known as the No Bake Aficionado and his recipe is EVEN BETTER than the one I'd been using.

So for any others living in warmer climes during the holidays, I encourage you to try this one -- I'm sure Santa would appreciate a plate of these and a tall glass of icy cold milk :)

Ben's No Bakes

½ c. (1 stick) butter
2 c. sugar
½ c. milk
¼ c.  cocoa powder
½ c. peanut butter

1 t. vanilla extract
3 c. quick-cooking oats

In a medium size saucepan melt the butter over low heat. Add sugar, milk and cocoa powder and whisk until well mixed. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Allow to boil a minute to a minute and a half, then remove from heat.

Immediately add peanut butter and vanilla, mixing well. Add oats (increasing to 3½ cups if the mixture is too wet) and blend quickly. 

Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper and allow to set for 10-15 minutes. Store in airtight container.

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DISCLAIMER: THESE BABIES ARE ADDICTIVE. Bake at your own risk is all I'm sayin'.