I never knew Vola Simpson, but she is dear to me for one reason: the no bake cookie recipe in her compiled text stands the test of time. She was a professor of Home Economics at Ball State Teacher’s College, and her book of recipes was required when my mom studied Journalism and Home Ec. there in the 70’s. I have never passed up a no bake, whether from Crestview Middle School’s Cafeteria or Indiana University’s Student Union, but I grew up eating the best ones at home courtesy of Professor Simpson and my mom. Perfect for a cold and rainy night or on an autumn camping trip – they are warm, fudgy, hearty and quick to make. Thank you to Ms. Simpson and my mom for passing on the love to generations.

Here’s the 1/4ed recipe: Boil together 1/4 cup butter, 2 tablespoons cocoa, 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup milk in a saucepan for 3 minutes. Take off stove and add 1/4 cup peanut butter, 1 1/2 cups oatmeal, and 1/4 tsp. vanilla. Optional: 1/4 cup coconut. Stir well and drop by spoon on waxed paper. Have milk on hand and save at least two for breakfast in the morning.

Yearbook image from The Orient 1956 Vol. 38. Also note that what no bakes lack in appearance they far surpass in taste. Let’s face it; they look just like the patties left by our horse Sunshine that were great for fertilizing the strawberry patch but not for looking at. I found my new tea towel and parchment paper to be more photogenic in this instance.