Monster Cookie Bars

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These Monster Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a delicious blend of textures and flavors. With gooey chocolate chips, crunchy M&Ms, and the rich taste of peanut butter, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these bars also make for a fun treat to share at parties or gatherings. You won’t be able to resist these sweet, chewy delights packed with all your crunchy, chocolaty favorites.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of monster cookies, you will adore these Monster Cookie Bars! They combine the classic flavors you love in cookie form but are baked in a convenient bar format. This makes them easier to make and even easier to share. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a mouthwatering dessert that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, they are quick to prepare; you can have these baking in your oven in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ¾ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups light brown sugar, not packed
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups mini M&Ms, divided

How To Make Monster Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

Step 3: Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Mix Oats

Add the rolled oats to the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. The oats add a delightful chevinegarss to the bars.

Step 5: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the light brown sugar, mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 6: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor.

Step 7: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.

Step 8: Fold in the Chocolate and M&Ms

Gently fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of the mini M&Ms until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 9: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the cookie dough into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly into the corners. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mini M&Ms on top for that colorful, festive look.

Step 10: Bake and Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and firm in the center. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
• Be careful not to overbake; the bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares for neat edges.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Add in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch.
• Use different candies, such as Reese’s Pieces or Skittles, instead of M&Ms for a fun twist.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Monster Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQ

Can I make these cookie bars without peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peanut butter with another nut or seed butter, or even with a creamy coconut spread for a different flavor.

What if I don’t have rolled oats? Can I use quick oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats in place of rolled oats. The texture will be slightly different, but they will still work well in this recipe.

Can I make these Monster Cookie Bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the oats you use are certified gluten-free.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

The cookie bars are done when they are golden brown around the edges and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

These Monster Cookie Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars are easy to make and fun to enjoy. The blend of peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and colorful M&Ms makes for a recipe that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and dive into the world of baking these gooey, chewy, and utterly delightful Monster Cookie Bars!

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