Monster Cookies are the delightful amalgamation of all your favorite cookie flavors in one bite. This recipe is perfect for those who love a chewy, peanut buttery treat with bursts of chocolatey goodness. Whether it's a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these cookies never disappoint.
The heart of these cookies starts with butter, providing richness and helping to create a smooth, creamy texture when creamed with the granulated sugar and brown sugar. The two sugars not only sweeten but also contribute to the chewy texture. Eggs give structure and moisture, while vanilla extract adds depth of flavor. Peanut butter is the star of the show, bringing a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the old-fashioned oats, which add chewiness. Baking soda is the leavening agent, ensuring the cookies have the right amount of lift. Semisweet chocolate chips and M&M's add bursts of chocolatey sweetness, and nuts, if you choose to add them, offer a satisfying crunch.
Enjoy these Monster Cookies alongside a refreshing glass of cold milk for a classic combination. For a special treat, try serving them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. They also make a fantastic addition to a dessert platter, paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced apples for a bit of contrast.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This way, everything's ready to go once your dough is mixed.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take a couple of minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Once that's ready, add in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Now, mix in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, stir together the baking soda and old-fashioned oats. Slowly add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until everything is well blended. This part might require a bit of elbow grease, but it's worth it!
Next, gently fold in the chocolate chips, M&M's, and nuts if you're using them. This is where the cookies really start to look fun and colorful.
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned but the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them set up perfectly.