Easy, Homemade Heavenly Hunks Cookie (Copycat Recipe)

These are, without a doubt, the most addicting little bites to ever come out of my kitchen.

I first stumbled upon the original Heavenly Hunks at Costco, like I’m sure many of y’all did. My sister-in-law, bless her heart, had a bag open at a family get together, and she insisted I try one. Well, one turned into three, and before I knew it, I was politely asking where she’d hidden the rest of the bag. The combination of oatmeal, coconut, and chocolate was just pure comfort.

I started buying them for the house, but my wallet was starting to feel it. Plus, I kept thinkin’, “I bet I can make these at home, and maybe even a little better.” That’s when the wheels started turning. The store-bought ones were good, but they were missing a little something, a bit of extra depth. I knew exactly what they needed to really sing.

My little secret is twofold. First, I toast the coconut. It takes just a few extra minutes in a skillet, but it completely transforms the flavor from just sweet to wonderfully nutty and rich. Second, I finish each little hunk with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt. That little salty crunch on top cuts through the sweetness and makes the chocolate and coconut flavors pop like you wouldn’t believe. This homemade Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe is now a staple for us, perfect for snacking, packing in lunches, or satisfying a sweet tooth without even turning on the oven.

Why This Heavenly Hunks Cookie Recipe Works

The original Heavenly Hunks, created by E&C’s Snacks, captured hearts and taste buds for a reason. They blend the wholesome, chewy texture of oatmeal cookies with the rich, satisfying flavors of a candy bar. Their popularity comes from that perfect sweet spot. They feel like a healthier choice with the oats, but they still deliver on the indulgent promise of chocolate and coconut.

This homemade recipe takes everything that’s wonderful about the original and elevates it. By making your own Heavenly Hunks cookie treats, you control the quality of the ingredients. You can use high-quality chocolate, pure vanilla extract, and organic oats if you like. There are no preservatives or ingredients you can’t pronounce, just simple, wholesome goodness.

The real magic, though, is in the technique. Toasting the coconut is a game changer. It deepens the flavor, adding a warm, roasted nuttiness that you just don’t get from raw shredded coconut. It also adds a subtle crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the chewy oats and the soft, melted chocolate. The final sprinkle of flaky sea salt is the finishing touch, creating a sophisticated sweet and savory flavor profile that keeps you coming back for another bite. These no-bake cookies are simple, quick, and deliver a complex, satisfying taste that store-bought versions just can’t match.

Ingredients for Heavenly Hunks Cookie

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. We’re using basic pantry staples to create something truly special. The key is using good quality ingredients, as each one plays an important role in the final flavor and texture. And of course, there’s my secret touch that takes these over the top.

The ingredient that truly makes my version of the Heavenly Hunks cookie shine is the toasted sweetened shredded coconut. Don’t skip the toasting step. It draws out the natural oils and sugars, creating a deep, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible. A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt balances all that sweetness perfectly.

Here is exactly what you’ll need:

• 2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Be sure to use rolled oats, not quick-cooking or steel-cut. They provide the perfect chewy, hearty texture that is the foundation of these cookies.
• 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut, toasted: This is my twist. Toasting the coconut in a dry skillet until it’s fragrant and lightly golden makes a world of difference.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: A good quality chocolate chip that melts nicely is best. You can use dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: This is the sweet, sticky binder that holds everything together. Make sure you don’t accidentally grab evaporated milk, they are not the same.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps everything bind together. You could also use unrefined coconut oil for an even more pronounced coconut flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A dash of good vanilla enhances all the other flavors in the mix.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: To mix into the cookie base.
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling: This is for finishing. A little crunch of salt on top is the perfect final touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Heavenly Hunks Cookie

This is a no-bake recipe, which means it comes together in a snap without ever heating up your house. The most important part is the prep and the chilling time, so make sure you follow the steps to get that perfect chewy, set texture. A good, sturdy mixing bowl and a cookie scoop will be your best friends here.

Remember, the goal is to create dense, chewy little bites, so don’t be afraid to really press them together when you’re forming them. This helps them hold their shape as they chill. Let’s get started on making the best homemade Heavenly Hunks cookie treats you’ve ever had.

• 1. Toast the Coconut: Place the 1 ½ cups of sweetened shredded coconut in a large, dry skillet over medium-low heat. Stir it constantly with a spatula until it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden brown. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch it closely, as it can burn in an instant. Once toasted, immediately transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool.
• 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: To the bowl with the toasted coconut, add the 2 ½ cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Stir everything together until it’s evenly distributed.
• 3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, the ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
• 4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in the large bowl. Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together until just combined. The mixture will be very thick and sticky. Don’t overmix, just stir until there are no dry spots.
• 5. Form the Hunks: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) to portion out the mixture. Pack the mixture firmly into the scoop, then release it onto the parchment paper. You can also roll them lightly between your palms to form more compact shapes.
• 6. Chill to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step is essential for the hunks to firm up and hold their shape.
• 7. Add the Finishing Touch: Once the hunks are firm, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each one. This final step adds a delicious salty contrast and a bit of crunch.

How To Serve Heavenly Hunks Cookie

These little bites are so versatile, they’re perfect for just about any occasion you can think of. Of course, the most common way to serve them is straight from an airtight container on the counter or in the fridge, ready for anyone to grab when a craving strikes. They are the ultimate easy-to-grab snack.

But if you want to get a little more creative, there are plenty of ways to dress them up or incorporate them into other desserts. They make a wonderful addition to a cookie platter for holidays or potlucks, offering a no-bake option that looks and tastes fantastic. Their chunky, rustic appearance adds a lovely homemade touch to any dessert spread. Think about how you can use their texture and flavor to elevate other simple treats.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe:

• Coffee Break Companion: There’s nothing better than one of these hunks alongside a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. It’s the perfect little pick-me-up for that midafternoon slump.
• Ice Cream Topper: Crumble one or two hunks over a bowl of vanilla bean or coffee ice cream. The chewy texture and chocolatey bits are an amazing contrast to the cold, creamy ice cream.
• Yogurt Parfait Layer: Break a hunk into smaller pieces and layer it in a glass with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a delicious and hearty breakfast or dessert parfait.
• On-the-Go Energy Bites: Because they hold their shape so well once chilled, they are perfect for packing. Toss a few in a small container for a hiking snack, a lunchbox treat, or a bite of energy before a workout.

No matter how you choose to serve them, they’re bound to be a hit. They have that wonderful quality of being both comforting and just a little bit fancy, all at the same time.

How To Store & Reuse Heavenly Hunks Cookie Leftovers

Since this is a no-bake cookie held together by sweetened condensed milk and butter, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and perfectly chewy. Leaving them out on the counter for too long, especially in a warm kitchen, can cause them to get a little too soft and sticky. The refrigerator is their best friend.

The best way to store your homemade Heavenly Hunks is in an airtight container. I like to place a small piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together, especially if my kitchen is on the warmer side. This keeps them fresh, firm, and ready for snacking for up to a week. They are actually delicious straight from the fridge, with a slightly firmer, chewier bite.

If you make a double batch or want to save them for later, they also freeze beautifully. Here are the best ways to store your leftovers:

• In the Refrigerator: Place the hunks in a single layer or stacked with parchment paper in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 7 days. This is my preferred method for everyday enjoyment.
• In the Freezer: For longer-term storage, arrange the set hunks on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about an hour, or until solid. This is called flash freezing and it prevents them from sticking together. Transfer the frozen hunks to a zip-top freezer bag or freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
• Thawing Frozen Hunks: When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can either eat them straight from the freezer for a very firm, chilly treat, or let them sit on the counter for about 15-20 minutes to soften up to their original texture.

If you have a few leftover hunks that are getting a little past their prime, don’t throw them away. You can crumble them up and use them as a crunchy topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. They also make a fantastic, chunky mix-in for a vanilla milkshake. There’s always a good use for these tasty bites.

Substitutions & Variations For Heavenly Hunks Cookie

One of the best things about a simple, no-bake recipe like this is how easy it is to customize. You can tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary needs, your personal taste, or even just what you happen to have in your pantry. This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious experiments, so feel free to play around and make it your own.

Whether you need to make them gluten-free, want to add a different flavor, or just want to use up some lingering ingredients, there are plenty of simple swaps you can make. Just remember that the sweetened condensed milk is the primary binder, so while you can change the mix-ins, you’ll want to keep that part the same unless you are using a specific dairy-free alternative.

Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations for this Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe:

• For a Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is easily made gluten-free. Simply ensure that you are using certified gluten-free old-fashioned rolled oats. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always wise to check your labels, especially for chocolate chips.
• Chocolate Swaps: Don’t feel tied to semi-sweet chocolate chips. You could use dark chocolate chunks for a richer, less sweet flavor, milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier taste, or even white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a completely different profile. A mix of mini chocolate chips and regular-sized ones also creates a great texture.
• Add Nuts and Fruit: For extra crunch and flavor, try adding about a half cup of chopped nuts like toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds. You could also mix in dried fruit like cranberries, chopped apricots, or dried cherries for a chewy, tart contrast.
• Flavor Extract Variations: While vanilla is classic, you can get creative here. Try substituting half of the vanilla with a quarter teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty, cherry-like flavor, or even a little peppermint extract during the holidays for a festive twist.

You can even add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to deepen the flavor. The possibilities are truly endless, so have fun with it.

5 FAQs About Heavenly Hunks Cookie

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe.

Why are my homemade Heavenly Hunks cookie treats falling apart?

This is the most common issue people run into, and it almost always comes down to one of three things: pressing, chilling, or ratios. First, when you use your cookie scoop to portion the mixture, you need to pack it in there firmly. After scooping them onto the parchment paper, I even use my fingers to gently press each hunk together to make sure it’s nice and compact. This initial pressing is crucial for helping them bind.

Second is the chilling time. This step is not optional. The chilling process is what solidifies the butter and sweetened condensed milk, which act as the “glue” holding everything together. If you rush this step or skip it, your hunks will be soft, sticky, and crumbly. They need at least an hour or two in the refrigerator, or a solid 30 minutes in the freezer, to become firm enough to hold their shape properly. If they still feel soft after an hour, give them a little more time.

Finally, double-check your ingredient measurements. If you accidentally added too many dry ingredients (like oats or coconut) or not enough sweetened condensed milk, the ratio of wet to dry will be off. The mixture should be very sticky and thick, not dry or crumbly, before you scoop it.

Can I make this Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe without coconut?

You certainly can, but you will need to substitute it with something else to maintain the structure and bulk of the cookies. Simply omitting the 1 ½ cups of coconut will throw off the ingredient ratios, resulting in a very wet and sticky mixture that may not set up correctly. The coconut adds both flavor and a significant amount of texture and substance.

If you have a coconut allergy or just aren’t a fan, you can replace it with an equal amount of another dry ingredient. A great option is to add more old-fashioned rolled oats. You could also substitute the coconut with crispy rice cereal for a lighter, crunchier texture, or add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. Another idea is to use a mix of seeds, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, for a nutty flavor without the nuts. Just know that any substitution will change the final flavor and texture from the original, but you can definitely create a delicious coconut-free version.

Is it possible to make a vegan version of this Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to make this recipe vegan with a few smart substitutions. The main ingredients you’ll need to swap out are the sweetened condensed milk, the butter, and the chocolate chips. Luckily, there are excellent vegan alternatives available for all of these today.

For the sweetened condensed milk, look for a vegan version made from coconut milk or oat milk. These are widely available in most grocery stores now and work beautifully as a one-to-one replacement. For the butter, simply use a plant-based butter substitute or melted refined coconut oil. Finally, make sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips, which are also easy to find. With these three simple swaps, you can create a delicious vegan Heavenly Hunks cookie that everyone can enjoy. The flavor will be nearly identical to the original.

What is the best type of oats to use for a chewy Heavenly Hunks cookie?

The type of oats you use has a huge impact on the final texture of your cookies, and for this recipe, old-fashioned rolled oats are definitely the best choice. Rolled oats are whole oats that have been steamed and then rolled flat. This process allows them to maintain their shape and provides that distinctly hearty, chewy texture that is so characteristic of a good oatmeal cookie or treat.

You should avoid using quick-cooking oats if possible. Quick oats have been rolled even thinner and cut into smaller pieces so they cook faster. In a no-bake recipe, they tend to absorb moisture differently and can result in a mushier, less defined texture. You should absolutely not use steel-cut oats. Steel-cut oats are chopped, not rolled, and remain very hard and dense. They will not soften in this recipe and would result in a very unpleasant, raw, and hard-to-eat cookie. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for that perfect chew.

How can I reduce the sugar in my Heavenly Hunks cookie recipe?

Reducing sugar in this recipe can be a bit tricky because the main source of sugar, the sweetened condensed milk, is also the primary binder that holds the cookies together. However, there are a few adjustments you can make to lower the overall sugar content. First, start by using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened. This is a very easy swap that cuts down on a surprising amount of sugar without affecting the structure.

Next, use a high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cacao (70% or higher) instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Dark chocolate contains significantly less sugar. You can also slightly reduce the amount of chocolate chips you use. While there are some sugar-free sweetened condensed milk products on the market, be aware that they can behave differently and may alter the final texture and taste of your hunks. My best advice is to start with unsweetened coconut and dark chocolate for a delicious, less-sweet version of the classic Heavenly Hunks cookie.

Try These Recipes Next

If you had fun making these easy no-bake treats, I just know you’ll love some of the other simple and satisfying recipes I have here on the blog. Cooking shouldn’t be a chore, and I’m all about finding delicious recipes that fit into our busy lives. Whether you need a quick breakfast idea or a full-blown dinner plan, I’ve got you covered.

Here are a few collections I think you’ll enjoy exploring after you’ve polished off your last Heavenly Hunk:

• Easy Breakfast Ideas & Recipes: These hunks can be a great grab-and-go breakfast bite, and if you love that kind of simplicity in the morning, you’ll find tons of inspiration here. From make-ahead muffins to quick scrambles, this list will help you start your day right.
• Cheap Meal Ideas & Budget-Friendly Recipes: One of the best reasons to make these cookies at home is to save a little money. If you’re looking for more ways to make delicious food without breaking the bank, this collection of recipes is an absolute lifesaver.
• 110 Easy Dinner Ideas That Taste Great: After you’ve figured out your snacks and treats, you still have to make dinner! This is my go-to list for when I need inspiration for a weeknight meal that the whole family will love, without spending hours in the kitchen.