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These Monster Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines all the best flavors in one easy-to-make dessert. Loaded with chocolate chips, M&Ms, and oats, they bring together the fun of cookie bars with a chewy texture. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a snack, these bars are sure to please everyone.
Why make this recipe
Making Monster Cookie Bars is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are simple to prepare, making them a perfect option for novice bakers. Second, they use common ingredients that you probably already have at home. Finally, these bars are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a dessert, pack them in lunches, or serve them at parties. Plus, who can resist that colorful candy topping?
How to make Monster Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 3/4 cups quick-cooking oats
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M candies
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and M&M candies until evenly distributed.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Optionally, press a few more M&Ms on top for a colorful finish.
- Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Avoid overbaking for the best chewy texture.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 20 minutes. For clean cuts, allow them to cool completely before slicing.
How to serve Monster Cookie Bars
Serve these Monster Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or paired with a glass of milk. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an extra touch or serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert!
How to store Monster Cookie Bars
To store your Monster Cookie Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them well!
Tips to make Monster Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is completely softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients. This keeps the bars soft.
- If you like, you can swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate.
- Feel free to add nuts or different types of candies to customize your bars.
Variation
Try adding ingredients like shredded coconut or chopped dried fruits for a different twist on these bars. You can also make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the bars.
What if I don’t have M&Ms?
You can use any other type of candy or chocolate chips you prefer.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
