Ah, monster cookies—just hearing the name sends a delightful shiver down my spine. I remember the first time I bit into one, the blend of peanut butter, oats, and M&M’s swirling together in a symphony of flavors I didn’t know I craved. Whether you’re a cookie connoisseur or just someone with an insatiable sweet tooth, these recipes are bound to evoke nostalgia and perhaps, a bit of cookie-induced euphoria.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cream the butter and sugars together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps form the desired texture.
- Incorporate the peanut butter into the creamed mixture, making sure it’s well combined. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, carefully measure the flour by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off. Combine the flour with oats, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and M&M’s.
- Place spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, ensuring not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to set while cooling on the pan.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 4 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2292kcal | Carbohydrates: 276g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 108g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Cholesterol: 216mg | Sodium: 1368mg | Potassium: 1128mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 168g | Vitamin A: 1740IU | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 10.8mg
FAQ
- Why are these cookies called Monster Cookies?
- The exact origin of the name “Monster Cookies” is unclear. Some believe it’s because the cookies have a rugged appearance and vibrant colors, while others think it’s due to the abundance of ingredients packed into each cookie, making them a “monster” in terms of content.
- How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
- To minimize spreading, ensure you use precise measurements for all ingredients and employ room temperature items, especially butter and eggs. Additionally, chilling the cookie dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape.
- What is the best way to store and freeze Monster Cookies?
- Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. For freezing, either the baked cookies or the cookie dough can be kept in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. If freezing dough, place frozen dough balls directly onto a baking sheet and extend the bake time by 2-4 minutes.
- How do I measure flour correctly for this recipe?
- To measure flour properly, fluff it gently to add air, then spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. This ensures an accurate measurement and contributes to the desired cookie texture.
- Can I substitute any of the ingredients in Monster Cookies?
- While the classic recipe includes peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and M&M’s, you can experiment with similar substitutes. For instance, try using almond butter instead of peanut butter or adding your favorite nuts for extra crunch.
Tips
- Ensure you cream the butter and sugars together for at least 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and achieving the desired texture in your cookies.
- To prevent your cookies from spreading too much during baking, use precise measurements and room-temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs. Additionally, chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape.
- When measuring flour, fluff it a bit before spooning it lightly into your measuring cup to ensure accuracy. This technique is similar to sifting and helps achieve the right consistency in your cookies.
- If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, either store the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months or freeze the dough balls. When baking from frozen, simply add an extra 2-4 minutes to the baking time.
Equipment
- Electric Mixer (Stand or Hand Mixer) – For creaming the butter and sugars.
- Cookie Scoop – Useful for portioning out the cookie dough evenly.
- Baking Sheet – Essential for baking the cookies in the oven.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat – To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Mixing Bowls – While common, a set of sturdy mixing bowls might be needed if not already available.
