Big Giant Monster Cookies

When it comes to cookies, some recipes simply stand out as more exciting and fun than others. One such recipe is the Big Giant Monster Cookies. These delightful treats are not your average cookie; they are thick, chewy, and packed with a variety of delicious ingredients. The vibrant colors from the mini M&Ms combined with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate create an irresistible cookie that will please kids and adults alike. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a sweet treat at home, these giant cookies make every occasion feel a little more special. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl and minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, Big Giant Monster Cookies are a fun and satisfying way to indulge your sweet tooth.

Ingredients about Big Giant Monster Cookies

To whip up a batch of these amazing cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats
• 1 and 1/2 cups mini M&Ms
• 1 and 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you want to make some adjustments based on your pantry or dietary needs, consider these substitutions:

• Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter for a nut-free option.
• Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for an exciting twist on flavor.
• For a lower sugar version, you can reduce the granulated and brown sugars by 25% without drastically affecting the texture.

How to Make Big Giant Monster Cookies

Creating these giant monster cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding process. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened butter on medium-high speed. Mix for about one minute, or until the butter appears smooth and creamy. Next, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, continuing to beat the mixture on medium-high speed for about two minutes. This process will help to incorporate air into the butter and sugars, providing a lighter texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Once the butter and sugars are well combined, it’s time to add the eggs, creamy peanut butter, and pure vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients in on high speed for about one minute. Make sure to stop and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, ensuring that all ingredients are blended fully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Oats

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage, as it can make the cookies tough. After adding the dry mix, fold in the rolled oats, mini M&Ms, and semi-sweet chocolate chips until the dough is thick, creamy, and sticky.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential because it helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and shape. You can chill the dough for up to four days; however, if you chill it for longer than an hour, allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before scooping.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookies

Once the dough is ready, use a large cookie scoop to scoop heaping tablespoons of dough, around 65 grams, and place them on the baking sheets about three inches apart. This spacing is important because the cookies will spread as they bake.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 14-16 minutes. The edges of the cookies should be set and lightly browned, while the centers will still appear slightly soft. Don’t worry; they will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheets.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

After baking, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes. This cooling step allows them to set properly. After the cool-down period, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, press a few additional chocolate chips and mini M&Ms into the tops of the cookies while they are still warm.

How to Serve Big Giant Monster Cookies

These giant monster cookies can be served in a variety of fun and delicious ways.

Best ways to serve Big Giant Monster Cookies

• Freshly Baked: For the best experience, serve them slightly warm, straight from the oven. The gooey chocolate chips are particularly delightful when melted, providing a wonderful contrast to the chewy cookie.
• With Milk: Nothing pairs better with cookies than a glass of cold milk. The combination is timeless and always satisfying.
• As Dessert: Impress your guests by serving them as a dessert option alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. You could even make an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of ice cream between two cookies!

Serving suggestions or pairings

• These cookies are perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, or family gatherings. You can arrange them on a platter and decorate with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Consider serving them alongside fruits like strawberries or bananas for a balanced dessert option that feels less indulgent.

How to Store Big Giant Monster Cookies

Proper storage of your cookies will keep them fresh and delicious for days.

Proper storage methods

• At Room Temperature: Once your cookies have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week.
• In the Refrigerator: If you prefer, you can also store them in the fridge for an even firmer texture, but remember that this may dry them out if stored for too long.

Tips for reheating or freezing

• For a warm treat, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will give them that freshly baked feel again.
• Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cookie dough. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough mounds into a freezer bag and store for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Tips to Make Big Giant Monster Cookies

To ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overmixing the Dough: When adding the dry ingredients mixed with wet ingredients, do not over-mix. This can result in tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough is crucial for the right texture and helps prevent excessive spreading during baking. Always allow time for this step.

Helpful tips for better results

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure even mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: For baking, precise measurements are key. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with flour.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins. Try adding nuts, dried fruit, or even crushed candies for a personalized touch.

Variation of Big Giant Monster Cookies

The beauty of cookie recipes is that they can easily be customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

• Add Spices: For an autumn twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dry ingredients.
• Nutty Crunch: Include chopped peanuts or other nuts to add extra texture and flavor.
• Different Types of Chocolate: Use a blend of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for varied taste.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

• Vegan Options: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a vegan butter alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all mix-ins are gluten-free.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cookies are not turning out as expected, it could be due to inaccuracies in measurements or possible overmixing. Always double-check your measuring techniques and, if your dough seems too wet or dry, adjust by adding a little bit more flour or a splash of water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough a few days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough and simply bake them whenever you’re in the mood for fresh cookies.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

For the peanut butter, you can easily replace it with almond or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or preferences. Similarly, feel free to swap chocolate chips or M&Ms with your favorite candy or add-ins that suit your taste.

In conclusion, Big Giant Monster Cookies are not only a delicious treat but also a fun baking project that can easily adapt to various tastes and dietary needs. Their whimsical design and delightful flavor profile make them an excellent choice for gatherings, snacking, or simply rewarding yourself with something sweet. Whether enjoyed right away or stored for later, these monster cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home!

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