No-Bake Chocolate Oat or Rice Krispies Cookies (Or Bars)

IMPORTANT! When mixture comes to a full boil it rises very high, so a large saucepan is a must to use.

Step 1

In a large heavy saucepan, add the butter, sugar, salt, evaporated milk and cocoa; stir over medium-high heat until ingredients are smooth and combined (about 2 minutes) then bring to a FULL boil. Boil for 3 minutes, stirring once or twice, the mixture MUST boil for 3 minutes, NO LESS AND NO MORE, anything more than 3 minutes will create a dry crumbly texture.

Step 2

Remove from heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Mix in oats until well combined. Allow the mixture to sit for about 3 minutes to semi-firm up.

Step 3

Using a tablespoon drop mixture baking sheets lined with parchment paper (Mixture will firm up after about 1 hour of sitting time (to speed up the firming process place into refrigerator) OR spread in an 8 x 8-inch pan, chill then cut into squares.

NOTE: Can use hard margarine, or can use half Crisco hard shortening and butter or all hard margarine - do not use Imperial brand block margarine, for some reason the mixture does not set properly, Parkay brand block margarine works great, best to use butter though