Are you ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Introducing Monster Cookie Bars – a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the heartiness of oats, the richness of peanut butter, and the sweetness of chocolate and candy. These bars are not just a treat; they are an experience! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun family activity, or simply craving something sweet, these cookie bars are the perfect solution. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
What makes these Monster Cookie Bars so special? It’s the blend of textures and flavors that come together harmoniously. With each bite, you’ll encounter chewy oats, creamy peanut butter, and bursts of chocolate and M&M’s that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, they are versatile enough to be customized with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Let’s dive into why you absolutely need this recipe in your baking repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First and foremost, these Monster Cookie Bars are incredibly easy to prepare. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, even novice bakers can whip up a batch in no time. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it a hassle-free baking experience.
Not only are they easy to make, but they also pack a punch when it comes to flavor. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips creates a deliciously decadent treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. The addition of M&M’s adds a fun, colorful touch that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving these at a birthday party or enjoying them as an after-school snack, they are sure to be a hit!
Another reason to love these Monster Cookie Bars is their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins! Want to add some nuts for crunch? Go ahead! Prefer white chocolate over semi-sweet? You can do that too! This recipe is just a base, and the possibilities are endless. Plus, they store well, making them perfect for meal prep or for freezing for later enjoyment.
Finally, let’s not forget about the nostalgia factor. These bars remind many of us of childhood treats, bringing back memories of baking with family or enjoying a sweet snack after school. Sharing these bars with loved ones is a wonderful way to create new memories while savoring the old ones.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re wondering why Monster Cookie Bars should be your next baking endeavor, the answer is simple: they are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a favorite among both kids and adults. Imagine serving these bars at your next gathering and watching everyone’s faces light up with delight. You’ll be the star of the show!
Moreover, these bars are a great option for meal prep. They can easily be cut into squares and packed for lunchboxes or enjoyed as an after-school snack. You can also keep them in an airtight container for up to a week, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready whenever the craving hits.
For those who might be health-conscious, you can make some substitutions to make these bars a tad healthier. Consider using natural peanut butter, reducing the sugar slightly, or adding in some seeds or dried fruit for additional nutrition. These small tweaks can make these Monster Cookie Bars a more wholesome option without compromising on taste.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
To create these scrumptious Monster Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s candies
Additionally, here are some recommended tools and utensils to ensure your recipe success:
- Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients and a separate bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: For mixing dry ingredients together.
- Spatula: To fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish, greased or lined with parchment paper.
- Oven Thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
- Cooling Rack: For cooling the bars once baked.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to make your fantastic Monster Cookie Bars:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly. Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a light texture.
- Add Peanut Butter: Mix in the creamy peanut butter until well combined. Ensure that it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M’s: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and M&M’s candies until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread in Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring an even bake.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, but it may alter the softness of the bars slightly.
How do I store leftover Monster Cookie Bars?
Store leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Can I freeze Monster Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute for eggs. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Monster Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best flavors into one easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to please anyone who tries them. With their chewy texture, rich taste, and colorful appearance, they are a fun addition to any table. We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below or let us know how your baking experience went! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and be sure to check out our other delicious recipes such as Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake and Better Than Anything Brownies!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page here.
Monster Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in the creamy peanut butter until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and M&M's candies until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
