Description
These Chewy Monster Cookies are packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and M&Ms, creating a delightful explosion of textures and flavors in every bite. Perfect for a sweet treat, lunchbox surprise, or a fun baking project with the kids, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. The key to their exceptional chewiness lies in using slightly cold butter and avoiding over-baking.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened but still cold (this helps keep the cookies thick and chewy)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar (adds moisture and richness)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (Skippy or Jif works best; avoid natural peanut butter for texture)
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla for best flavor)
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats, for best texture)
- 1 cup M&Ms, plus extra for topping (mini or regular work fine)
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (adds melty richness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened (but still cool) butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla:
Mix in the peanut butter until smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Step 5: Fold in the Good Stuff:
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the rolled oats, M&Ms, and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed. The dough will be thick.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough:
Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie.
Step 7: Add Extra M&Ms:
For that classic Monster Cookie look, press a few extra M&Ms on top of each dough ball before baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the centers still look slightly underbaked. Don’t overbake — they’ll continue cooking on the sheet.
Step 9: Cool and Set:
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set without becoming too crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Chewy Texture: The combination of oats and slightly underbaked centers results in a perfectly chewy cookie.
- Packed with Flavor: Peanut butter, chocolate chips, and M&Ms create a symphony of sweet and nutty flavors.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginner bakers.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as pretzels, nuts, or different types of chocolate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are always a hit at parties, bake sales, and family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy warm with a glass of cold milk.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a delightful midday treat.
- Serve at parties and gatherings.
- Stack in a jar for a homemade gift.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Use Slightly Cold Butter: This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
- Don’t Overbake: Underbaking slightly will keep the cookies chewy. They will continue to cook as they cool.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For even thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
10-12 minutes
Total Time:
25-27 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
Calories: Approximately 220 per cookie
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 120mg
Conclusion
These Chewy Monster Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. The combination of chewy texture, rich flavors, and colorful appearance makes them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking with kids or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cookie cravings.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
A: It’s best to avoid natural peanut butter for this recipe because it can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Creamy peanut butter like Skippy or Jif works best for achieving the desired texture.
Q2: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q3: Can I substitute the M&Ms with other candies?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the M&Ms with other candies like Reese’s Pieces, chopped-up chocolate bars, or any other candy you enjoy.
Q4: Why are my cookies spreading too thin?
A: This can happen if the butter is too soft, or if the oven temperature is too low. Make sure your butter is softened but still slightly cold, and that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
Q5: How do I store the cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
