If you love a treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with a refreshing hint of mint, then you are going to adore this Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies Recipe. These cookies come together quickly without needing an oven, making them an ideal dessert for any season. Each bite melts in your mouth with the fudgy texture of chocolate, the chewy goodness of oats and coconut, and a cool minty frosting topped with silky ganache. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will become a fast favorite to keep on hand for special occasions or simple cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play an important role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color. Every addition ensures the cookies come out fudgy, minty, and utterly irresistible.
- Butter (1/2 cup): Provides a rich, creamy base that enriches the chocolate mixture.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and gives these no-bake cookies their classic, fudge-like taste.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Adds deep chocolate flavor and the defining color of the cookies.
- Milk (1/2 cup plus extra): Used to smooth out the batter and in the frosting and ganache for creaminess.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out the chocolate goodness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies all flavors.
- Quick oats (3 1/2 cups): Gives chewy texture and hearty substance without baking.
- Shredded unsweetened coconut (2 1/2 cups): Adds tropical flavor and chewy dimension.
- Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): For a smooth, creamy frosting base.
- Icing sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the mint frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Mint extract (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers that refreshing, cool flavor that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- Green food coloring: Gives the frosting a fun, festive minty hue.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (3/4 cup): For the luxurious chocolate ganache topping.
- Butter (1 tbsp) and milk (1 tbsp) for ganache: Create a glossy, silky finish on top of the cookies.
How to Make Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Cookie Base
Begin by lining two cookie sheets with wax paper so your cookies don’t stick later. In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter with granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes, which helps the sugar dissolve completely and the mixture thicken slightly.
Step 2: Mixing in the Flavors and Textures
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt to heighten the chocolate’s rich flavor. Next, fold in the oats and shredded coconut, which add wonderful chewy components that complement the fudgy chocolate beautifully.
Step 3: Shaping and Chilling Your Cookies
Using a spoon, drop 24 dollops of the chocolate-oat mixture onto the prepared wax paper. This gives each cookie its rustic, homemade shape. Pop the trays into the refrigerator and chill until the cookies have set firmly. This chilling step is essential for the no-bake cookies to hold their shape.
Step 4: Crafting the Mint Frosting
While the cookies chill, make your iconic mint frosting. In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat together room temperature butter, icing sugar, and a splash of milk until the texture turns creamy and smooth. Next, add the mint extract and green food coloring. If the frosting feels too thin, adjust by adding a bit more icing sugar or milk. Your goal is to have a spreadable yet firm frosting that won’t run.
Step 5: Frosting and Setting
Once the cookies are firm, remove them from the fridge and gently spread the mint frosting over the top of each cookie. Return the cookies to the refrigerator to let the frosting set properly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 6: Preparing and Adding the Chocolate Ganache
For an indulgent finishing touch, make a smooth chocolate ganache by gently heating semisweet chocolate chips, a tablespoon each of milk and butter, in a small pot over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is silky smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before spreading a thin, even layer over the frosted cookies. Chill again to let the ganache solidify into a glossy, decadent shell.
How to Serve Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle a few fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cocoa powder over the ganache for a beautiful, aromatic flair. White chocolate shavings or a few crushed peppermint candies can also add texture and festive appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a tall glass of cold milk, a warm cup of mint tea, or even a rich hot cocoa. Their richness balances perfectly with refreshing or creamy beverages.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies on a vibrant platter layered with fresh mint sprigs or edible flowers. For parties, display them in parfait glasses alongside whipped cream, or serve them with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an extra luxurious treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because these Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies contain a frosting and ganache topping, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. Place wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking, and keep them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Layer them with wax paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge to maintain their fudgy texture and fresh mint flavor.
Reheating
Since these cookies are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary. If you want the ganache to soften slightly, simply sit them at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This brings out the creamy richness without compromising their structure.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Absolutely! Using old-fashioned oats will give the cookies a heartier texture and chewier bite, which some people prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture will be a bit different from the original fudgy chewiness that quick oats provide.
Is there a substitute for the mint extract?
If mint extract is hard to find, you can substitute with peppermint extract, but use slightly less as peppermint can be stronger. Another option is finely chopped fresh mint leaves stirred into the frosting, though this creates a different texture and flavor intensity.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, with a few swaps! Use vegan butter, plant-based milk, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. The recipe’s structure holds well with these substitutions, and you’ll still get that delicious fudgy mint chocolate flavor.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, try cutting back the sugar in the cookie base slightly or opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips with lower sugar. You can also use unsweetened coconut and adjust the frosting by reducing the icing sugar a little, but keep the mint extract the same to maintain flavor balance.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up nicely if you’re preparing for a crowd or a party. Just make sure your mixing bowls and pots are large enough to handle the increased volume, and chill in batches if necessary to keep the cookies uniform.
Final Thoughts
This Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, indulgent treat with a fresh twist. The combination of fudgy chocolate, bright mint frosting, and luscious ganache makes these cookies a must-try for chocolate lovers everywhere. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do—once you try them, they’ll surely become a treasured recipe in your collection!
Print
Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in these Fudgy Mint Chocolate No-Bake Cookies that combine rich cocoa, refreshing mint, and chewy oats and coconut for a perfect sweet treat without turning on the oven. With a layered design featuring mint frosting and a silky chocolate ganache topping, these cookies are quick to prepare and sure to satisfy any chocolate and mint lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups quick oats
- 2 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
Mint Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups icing sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk (plus extra if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
- green food coloring, enough for desired shade
Chocolate Ganache
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare Cookie Sheets: Line two cookie sheets with wax paper to prevent sticking and make transfer easy.
- Make the Cookie Base: In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine 1/2 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup milk. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a boil, then boil for 1-2 minutes to set the base.
- Add Flavor and Mix-ins: Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Fold in 3 1/2 cups quick oats and 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut until fully combined.
- Shape Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared cookie sheets, making 24 cookies. Refrigerate until firm and set.
- Prepare Mint Frosting: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat 1/2 cup room temperature butter, 1 1/2 cups icing sugar, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 teaspoon mint extract and green food coloring. Adjust consistency with additional sugar or milk to avoid runniness.
- Frost the Cookies: Remove cookies from fridge and spread each with the mint frosting. Return to the refrigerator to allow the frosting to set properly.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: In a small pot over very low heat, combine 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1 tablespoon butter. Stir continuously until the ganache is smooth. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Top Cookies with Ganache: Spread cooled ganache over the frosted cookies and refrigerate again to let the chocolate layer set.
- Storage: Store cookies in the refrigerator or freezer. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking, as they are slightly gooey but deliciously fudgy.
Notes
- Use quick oats for better texture and binding; old-fashioned oats can be used but may alter texture slightly.
- If mint flavor is too strong, adjust extract according to taste.
- Food coloring is optional and only for visual effect.
- Keep cookies refrigerated to maintain their shape and prevent melting of frosting and ganache.
- These cookies do not require baking, so perfect for warm weather or when oven use is limited.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
