Monster Cookie Bars

Monster Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the classic combination of oats, peanut butter, chocolate, and candy. These bars are a delightful twist on traditional monster cookies, offering all the flavors you adore in a convenient, chewy bar form. Whether you’re baking for a party, a picnic, or just because, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this indulgent recipe that combines rich flavors and textures, making every bite a delightful experience.

Why This Recipe Works

This Monster Cookie Bars recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, the combination of creamy peanut butter and butter creates a moist and flavorful base. Old-fashioned oats add a chewy texture, while semi-sweet chocolate chips and M&Ms provide bursts of sweetness in every bite. The addition of flaky sea salt on top elevates the flavor, giving a perfect sweet-and-salty balance. Plus, these bars are incredibly easy to make—no chilling the dough or rolling individual cookies! Just mix, bake, and enjoy!

What We’re Using

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups M&Ms, divided
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on bars

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Mixing bowls: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To thoroughly mix the ingredients and ensure no lumps.
• Rubber spatula: For folding in the chocolate chips and M&Ms.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan works best for even baking.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking pan for easy removal of the bars.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Directions: Monster Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, baking soda, and sea salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&Ms

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of the M&Ms. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of M&Ms for topping.

Step 7: Spread into Pan

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the spatula to smooth the top.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms over the top of the dough, pressing them down slightly. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Customize for Your Needs

• Nut-free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
• Chocolate preferences: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• Extra add-ins: Throw in some chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Steer Clear of These

When making your Monster Cookie Bars, avoid using:

• Self-rising flour, as it will alter the texture and rise of the bars.
• Instant oats, as they do not provide the same chewy texture as rolled oats.
• Overbaking, which can lead to dry bars. Keep an eye on them as they bake!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftover Monster Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm and gooey.

Quick Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned oats for this recipe, as quick oats will result in a different texture. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewy bite that complements the bars perfectly.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and the eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce to make a vegan-friendly version.

What can I use instead of M&Ms?

If you prefer, you can replace M&Ms with chocolate-covered nuts, caramel bits, or even crushed candy bars for a unique twist!

How thick should the batter be when I spread it in the pan?

The batter will be thick but spreadable. Use a spatula to press it into the corners of the pan, ensuring even thickness throughout.

Bring It Home

Now that you have the perfect Monster Cookie Bars recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! These bars are not only delicious but are also perfect for sharing with friends, bringing to gatherings, or simply enjoying at home with a glass of milk. The combination of flavors and textures is bound to make these bars a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of baking, and don’t forget to savor every chewy, chocolatey bite of these amazing Monster Cookie Bars!