Monster Cookie Bars
Monster Cookies and I go way back, like 2008 back. We're talking the pre-Pinterest-dawn-of-hashtags days. The best recipes stand the test of time (and technology). Monster Cookies are no exception. It's been six years since I first hit publish on that recipe for Monster Cookies, and dozen after dozen, month after month, year after year, the cookies
Monster Cookies and I go way back, like 2008 back. We're talking the pre-Pinterest-dawn-of-hashtags days. The best recipes stand the test of time (and technology). Monster Cookies are no exception. It's been six years since I first hit publish on that recipe for Monster Cookies, and dozen after dozen, month after month, year after year, the cookies
- Carbohydrate 32.8598418323406 g
- Cholesterol 103.668750008557 mg
- Fat 23.495322782782 g
- Fiber 1.94730562051612 g
- Protein 4.08693583364437 g
- Saturated Fat 13.9342123642061 g
- Serving Size 1 1 bar (83g)
- Sodium 2459.32036780271 mg
- Sugar 30.9125362118245 g
- Trans Fat 1.81387219474882 g
- Calories 350 calories
Step-by-step
- Pre-heat the oven to 350°F and line a 13x9-inch metal baking pan with greased parchment paper with a 2-inch overhang on each short side of the pan.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the sugar, brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs to the bowl, one at a time, beating between each addition then add the peanut butter, vanilla extract, baking soda and salt and mix until well combined.
- Add the oats and mix just until combined. Stir in the M&Ms and chocolate chips.
- Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared pan, pressing it into an even layer.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. (See Kelly's Notes.)
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie to cool in the pan for 20 minutes.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cookie out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Slice the cookie into 24 bars and serve.
- For chewier, softer cookie bars, underbake the cookie and allow it to cool in the pan for 30 to 45 minutes before slicing and serving.
- If you are using a glass 13x9-inch baking pan, you may need to decrease the oven temperature to 325°F based on how the heat circulates in your oven.
My Go-To Monster Cookie Bars: A Recipe for Every Occasion
These Monster Cookie Bars aren't just a recipe; they're a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, a testament to the enduring power of a truly great treat. Remember those carefree days before the constant scroll of social media? Before perfectly posed food photos dominated our screens? This recipe predates all that, a classic that's stood the test of time and countless batches. It’s the kind of recipe you can easily adjust to your own liking, the kind you can whip up when you are feeling nostalgic, or need a quick treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The beauty of these bars lies in their versatility. They're perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or simply satisfying a sudden craving for something chewy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. I remember the first time I made these – a simpler time of measuring cups and wooden spoons and pure, untainted joy of baking. They’re also great for last-minute gifts for friends and family or a quick self-care moment for a busy mom or woman on the go.
The ingredients are straightforward – oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, M&Ms – all pantry staples that create a symphony of textures and flavors. It's the perfect blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, making each bite a delightful adventure for your taste buds. The aroma alone as they bake is enough to make you swoon. I often find myself drawn to the kitchen to take that first bite even when there is no party or event planned – a bit of an indulgence, I must admit, but a reward well earned in the midst of a chaotic day. This recipe is a reminder that even the simplest things can bring immense joy.
Over the years, I've shared this recipe countless times. It's become a staple at family gatherings, a crowd-pleaser that always disappears in a flash. I've seen little ones gleefully grab a bar, their eyes widening with delight. I've watched adults, usually too sophisticated for such simple pleasures, sneak a second, and maybe even a third, completely mesmerized by the irresistible combination of flavors. It’s the perfect way to add a bit of joy to your day, a break from the monotony of the daily grind, or even a moment of reflection as you recall memories.
More than just a recipe, this is a story of simple pleasures and enduring favorites. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. The recipe hasn't changed much since I first discovered it, because why mess with perfection? It's an easy, foolproof way to create a treat that will bring smiles and happy memories to your table, whether it's a family gathering, a friendly get-together, or just a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or tea. It's a recipe I'm happy to share, and one I hope you'll make your own.
The steps are simple, the ingredients are familiar, and the result is guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these magical Monster Cookie Bars. You won't regret it. They're more than just cookies; they're a nostalgic escape, a delicious reward, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And who knows, maybe they'll become a favorite in your household, a cherished memory that brings the whole family together.
The most important ingredient in this recipe? Love. Put some love into your mixing, into your baking and most importantly, into every bite that you take. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a business executive, a fitness enthusiast or simply a woman who appreciates the small joys in life, this recipe offers more than just satisfaction; it's a small ritual of self-care in a busy life. It is a reminder that taking a bit of time to create something delicious for yourself or for your loved ones is a worthy investment of time and effort.
So, bake away, and let the deliciousness take you back to a simpler time, a time of joy, of cherished memories and sweet treats.
Beyond the Bars: Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or even pretzels for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect Monster Cookie Bar combination.
