Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies

Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering! Imagine biting into a cookie that’s both soft and chewy, packed with candy-coated M&Ms and a wonderful hint of peanut butter. It’s a tasting experience that feels cozy and fun. These cookies have a sweet nostalgia that takes you back to carefree childhood days. Whether you’re baking with kids or indulging in sweet moments alone, you’ll find that making these cookies is as enjoyable as eating them. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s whip up these fantastic Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies together!

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies harmonizes key ingredients that create a uniquely delightful texture—peanut butter for richness and oats for chewiness. Chilling the dough ensures the cookies do not spread excessively while baking, resulting in the perfect combination of crispy edges and chewy centers.

Why You’ll Love This Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies

These cookies are not just another dessert; they’re an experience. Packed with gooey M&Ms and the nostalgic flavor of peanut butter, these cookies are sure to delight both kids and adults. The hint of fun from the candy eyes makes them perfect for festive occasions!

Ingredients

• 1 cup salted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup dark or light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 2 cups M&Ms (plus more for topping)
• Candy eyes (optional)

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter for 2 minutes, ensuring the sides and bottom are well-scraped. Combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and peanut butter, and beat until the mixture is smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating well until thoroughly mixed.

Stir in the Dry Ingredients

Gently incorporate the flour, avoiding overmixing. First, use a small spoon to stir the baking soda and salt directly into the flour, then gradually mix it into the wet ingredients until you see just a few flour streaks—this is crucial for a chewy texture.

Add Oats and M&Ms

Fold in the quick oats, old-fashioned oats, and 2 cups of M&Ms using a spatula. Make sure all ingredients are evenly combined; however, it’s key to avoid overmixing at this stage for that chewy goodness.

Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the fridge for 1 to 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This step amplifies the flavors and enhances the texture.

Preheat the Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal.

Shape the Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop, shape dough balls about 2 inches across and place them on the baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the centers are just shy of shiny and the edges appear firm. Be cautious not to overbake, as this could sacrifice the chewy texture.

Add Toppings

Immediately after removing from the oven, press additional M&Ms and a few candy eyes into the top of each cookie. For a taller cookie, gently push the edges of each cookie toward the center using a spoon.

Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Don’t forget to indulge in at least one warm cookie fresh from the oven!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that ultimate dessert delight!

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve the best creaming results.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it significantly improves the cookie texture.
• Use varying types of M&Ms for a colorful twist on your cookies.

Variations

• Swap M&Ms for your favorite chocolate chunks or nuts for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew butter, for a unique taste.

Storage Tips

Store your cookies in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week. For longer freshness, freeze the unbaked dough and bake directly from the freezer when cravings strike!

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but keep in mind it may lead to a dryer texture.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, baked cookies can be frozen in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.

4. Why did my cookies spread too much?
Cookies may spread due to warm dough or insufficient chilling time, so always chill the dough as recommended.

5. How can I make these cookies extra chewy?
For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to cool on the baking sheet longer.

Indulge in these Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies that are not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared at a gathering, they capture the essence of homemade joy in each bite. Happy baking!

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