Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Bake Horse Cookies are a wholesome, fun treat perfect for equine companions and a favorite project for horse lovers of all ages. Made with natural ingredients like oats, molasses, and carrots or apples, these cookies are easy to mix, mold, and serve—no oven required. Ideal for rewarding good behavior or celebrating a special occasion at the barn.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
rolled oatsmolasseschopped carrots or grated appleapplesauce or peanut butter (unsweetened)flaxseed meal or bran (optional for texture)water (as needed)
directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, molasses, applesauce or peanut butter, and chopped carrots or apples.
Stir well until the mixture is thick and sticky. Add flaxseed or bran if using.
If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of water; if too wet, add more oats.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls or flatten into cookie shapes.
Place formed cookies on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Store in the fridge or freeze for longer storage. Serve as occasional treats.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20–24 small cookies.Preparation time: 10 minutesChill time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
Add chopped peppermint, banana, or unsweetened shredded coconut.
Use alfalfa pellets (ground) for extra forage content.
Mix in a touch of cinnamon or turmeric for added flavor and benefits.
Form into fun shapes with cookie cutters.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.No reheating needed—serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Are these safe for horses?
Yes, made with horse-friendly, natural ingredients—feed in moderation.
Can I make them for ponies or minis?
Yes, use smaller portions and adjust size accordingly.
Can dogs eat them?
Most ingredients are dog-safe, but check with your vet first.
Can I use honey instead of molasses?
Yes, but molasses is more traditional and rich in iron.
Do I have to refrigerate them?
Yes, to keep them fresh and firm.
Can I use instant oats?
Yes, though rolled oats give better texture.
Are these good for senior horses?
Yes, especially if you use soft ingredients like applesauce and finely grate carrots.
What if the mix is too sticky?
Add more oats or bran to balance texture.
Can I skip the flaxseed?
Yes, it’s optional for texture and nutrition.
Are they good training treats?
They’re best as occasional rewards due to sugar content—not for frequent use during intense training.
Conclusion
No Bake Horse Cookies are a simple, nutritious way to pamper your equine friend with homemade love. Quick to mix, easy to shape, and fun to customize, they’re perfect for bonding moments, barn parties, or just a special snack. Whip up a batch and watch your horse trot over for more.
Print
No Bake Horse Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes + cooling
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert/Cookie
- Method: No‑Bake Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No‑bake Horse Cookies are hearty, chewy treats made with oats, peanut butter, cocoa, and coconut—named for their rugged, cowboy‑style appeal and simplicity in preparation.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Let it boil for 1 minute exactly, continuing to stir.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Add oats and coconut (if using), stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Drop spoonfuls (about 2 tbsp each) onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let cookies cool and set at room temperature (about 30 minutes) or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Once firm, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Don’t skip the 1‑minute boil—that helps the cookies set properly.
- Use quick oats for best texture; old‑fashioned oats work too but yield chewier results.
- Add-ins: chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries boost flavor and texture.
- Measure the boiling time carefully—overcooking can yield dry cookies; underboiling results in sink‑prone treats.