Monster Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that brings joy to every bite, you’ve landed in the right place! Monster Cookies are chewy, packed with flavor, and downright irresistible. This recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites, perfect for filling up the cookie jar or impressing friends at gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these cookies make any occasion a little sweeter.

What makes them even more special is how customizable they can be. With their delightful combination of peanut butter, oats, and colorful candies, they are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and these cookies are fun to make together.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, these cookies fit the bill.
• Make Ahead: Bake a batch and store them for quick snacks throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of peanut butter and chocolate creates an unforgettable taste that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create the most delightful Monster Cookies.

For the Base

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup peanut butter – creamy or crunchy
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Dry Mix

• 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Fun Additions

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup Reese’s Pieces candies
• Candy eyeball sprinkles (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Monster Cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins and flavors.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use Different Chocolates: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you prefer.
• Go Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Add some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy twist!

How to Make Monster Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, add your softened butter and brown sugar. Beat them together with an electric mixer for about two minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies nice and tender.

Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter and Eggs

Next, add in your peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until combined. The peanut butter adds that rich flavor that makes these cookies so special!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your dry ingredients! Stir in the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt until everything is well blended. This combination gives our Monster Cookies their heartiness while keeping them soft.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Once your dough is ready, fold in those delicious semi-sweet chocolate chips. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 6: Scoop and Shape Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop, place dough balls about two inches apart on a greased or lined baking sheet. If your dough feels sticky while scooping, sprinkle some granulated sugar on top—this will help when you mash them down.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—they’ll continue cooking slightly after coming out of the oven.

Step 8: Add Toppings

If you’re feeling festive, gently press a few Reese’s Pieces into each cookie right after they come out of the oven. You can also sprinkle some candy eyeballs on top if you’re making these for Halloween!

Step 9: Cool Down

Let your delicious Monster Cookies cool on a wire rack so they set perfectly before diving in.

Step 10: Store Properly

Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container where they can last up to seven days—if they last that long!

Now you’re all set to enjoy delightful Monster Cookies that are sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Monster Cookies

Baking Monster Cookies is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they come out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and better texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the chewy consistency we adore.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough seems too sticky to handle, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make scooping easier and improve the cookie’s shape during baking.

• Experiment with mix-ins: While chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces are classic, feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist that caters to your taste.

• Watch the baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

How to Serve Monster Cookies

These Monster Cookies are not only delicious but also fun to present! Here are some ideas to make them stand out at your next gathering or family treat.

Garnishes

• Candy eyeball sprinkles: These playful sprinkles add a whimsical touch that’s perfect for Halloween or any festive occasion.
• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled cookies enhances their appearance and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Milk: The classic pairing! A cold glass of milk is always a hit with cookies, balancing their sweetness perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to your plate.
• Hot cocoa: On colder days, serving these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa creates a cozy treat that everyone will love.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent dessert experience, serve Monster Cookies with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream – it’s a match made in heaven!

Now you’re all set to whip up some delicious Monster Cookies! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Monster Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. These cookies stay fresh and delicious, making them a fantastic treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled Monster Cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft and chewy.
• They can be kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.
• If you notice any cookies getting a bit dry, place a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze Monster Cookies, allow them to cool completely.
• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quick microwave option, place one cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Monster Cookies!

What are Monster Cookies?

Monster Cookies are deliciously chewy peanut butter oatmeal cookies packed with chocolate chips and colorful Reese’s Pieces candies. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Can I make Monster Cookies without eggs?

Yes! For egg-free Monster Cookies, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.

How do I make my Monster Cookies extra chewy?

To ensure your Monster Cookies are extra chewy, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly browned but the centers look slightly underbaked.

Can I customize my Monster Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even swap out Reese’s Pieces for other candies based on your preference. Let your creativity shine!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Monster Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just tasty; they’re also fun to make and share with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around. Happy baking!