Melt butter in pan over medium-low to medium heat.
Add the evaporated milk, cocoa powder, and sugar to the melted butter. Stir and cook until the mixture comes to a complete boil.
Cook for one minute.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla, rolled oats, nuts if using, and coconut. Stir until completely mixed.
Scoop mixture onto a cookie sheet that has been lined with wax paper.
Let the cookies set until firmed up.
Notes
My mom’s recipe card didn’t state whether to use old-fashioned or quick oats. I always use old-fashioned. However, I am sure the quick oats would work perfectly!Nuts are optional and can easily be added to this recipe.