If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing treat that combines chewy oats, rich peanut butter, delightful chocolate chips, colorful M&M’s, and crunchy walnuts, then you absolutely need to try the Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe. This recipe brings together so many textures and flavors in one cookie, creating a truly unforgettable dessert experience. Each bite bursts with sweet, nutty, and chocolatey goodness, making these cookies perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on a cozy afternoon. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Monster Cookies will become your new go-to for any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward staples but each one plays an important role in building the perfect Monster Cookie. From the creamy peanut butter that adds moisture and that classic flavor, to the old-fashioned oats giving a chewy, hearty texture, every component contributes to making these cookies memorable.
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened: Provides rich flavor and ensures a tender cookie texture.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds that distinctive nutty taste that Monster Cookies are known for.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps with the cookie’s crisp edges.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor for chewiness.
- 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and help the cookies rise.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats: Give the cookies their hearty, chewy texture.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that forms the chewy yet sturdy bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate throughout every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate: Add bursts of color and crunchy chocolate candy.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Introduces a delightful crunch and earthy tone.
How to Make Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is crucial for even baking and easy cookie removal later. Having your ingredients measured out and ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This incorporates air and creates that tender yet substantial texture we all crave in a Monster Cookie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Stir in the vanilla extract—the secret ingredient that brings warmth and depth to every cookie bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a different bowl, whisk together the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agent and seasoning, so every cookie bakes evenly with just the right rise and flavor balance.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want tender cookies, not tough ones.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Now for the fun part—fold in the chocolate chips, M&M’s, and walnuts if you’re using them. Each one adds a unique texture and taste that makes this Monster Cookie recipe stand out from all others.
Step 7: Portion and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart onto your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the center still looks a little soft. This ensures a chewy, slightly underbaked center that melts in your mouth.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent breakage and lets them set perfectly.
How to Serve Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to take these cookies to the next level visually and flavor-wise, consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking. It makes the chocolate and peanut butter flavors pop! You can also add a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
Side Dishes
These Monster Cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For coffee lovers, serving them alongside a rich cup of coffee or hot chocolate enhances the cookie’s nutty and chocolatey notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, stack these cookies tied with a colorful ribbon or arrange them on a festive platter mixed with fresh fruit or nuts. You can also sandwich a dollop of peanut butter or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This keeps them soft and chewy, preserving all the flavors you love.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch and freeze for later, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
Reheating
To refresh frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature and warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. This revives the gooey chocolate and soft texture just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add even more texture to the cookies, making each bite extra nutty and delightful. Just keep in mind it might slightly change the dough’s consistency.
Are walnuts necessary in the recipe?
Walnuts are optional but highly recommended for that satisfying crunch and earthy flavor contrast among the sweet chocolate and peanut butter. If you’re allergic or don’t like nuts, you can skip them without losing the cookie’s essence.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe without compromise.
How do I make the cookies more chewy?
For extra chewy cookies, try reducing the bake time by one or two minutes and slightly underbake. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps retain moisture better over time.
Can I replace M&M’s with another candy?
Definitely! Feel free to swap M&M’s with Reese’s Pieces, chopped candy bars, or even dried fruit for a twist on the traditional Monster Cookie. Just adjust quantities to maintain balance.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those feel-good treats that never disappoint. With its perfect mix of flavors and textures, it’s a recipe worth sharing and savoring with all your favorite people. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Monster Cookies with Chocolate Chips, M&M’s, and Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Monster Cookies recipe combines the rich flavors of peanut butter, oats, and chocolate with colorful M&M’s and optional walnuts for a delightful, chewy treat. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that blend a variety of textures and tastes into one irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate air and creates the cookie’s tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate each before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, M&M’s, and chopped walnuts if using, ensuring even distribution without deflating the mixture.
- Portion the Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. For chewier cookies, reduce baking time by 1-2 minutes.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they firm up nicely.
Notes
- For extra chewy cookies, slightly underbake by 1–2 minutes.
- Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter to vary the flavor.
- Ensure cookies are spaced adequately on baking sheets to prevent merging.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup and even baking.
