Monster Cookie Bars

If you are looking for a sweet treat that packs a punch of flavor and texture, look no further than Monster Cookie Bars. These delightful bars combine the flavors of classic monster cookies into a thick, chewy, and satisfying dessert. Originating from the beloved monster cookie recipe, these bars boast a medley of ingredients that dance on the palate. Each bite is filled with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and colorful M&M’s, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Monster Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick snack, a dessert for a potluck, or a treat to share with friends, these bars fit the bill beautifully. You can serve them warm from the oven or let them cool completely for a firmer texture. They are versatile and loved by both kids and adults alike. Moreover, they can be personalized with a few tweaks, making each batch uniquely yours. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a baking adventure with these sweet, chewy bars!

Ingredients about Monster Cookie Bars

List of ingredients with measurements

To make Monster Cookie Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s (or any colorful candy)

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’d like to switch things up or accommodate allergies, here are some substitutions you can try:

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative.
• Swap out peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for another nut-free option.
• Use gluten-free oats if you are avoiding gluten.
• For a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar alternative that measures like sugar.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Monster Cookie Bars

Making Monster Cookie Bars is a simple process that yields delicious results. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare the pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with butter or use parchment paper for easy removal later. This step is crucial as it prevents the cookie bars from sticking to the pan, making them easy to slice once baked.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the mixture, making the bars light and chewy.

Step 3: Add peanut butter and eggs

Next, add the creamy peanut butter to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well incorporated. Then, add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. The batter should have a smooth and creamy consistency at this stage, rich in peanut flavor that’s sure to be appealing.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the old-fashioned oats, baking soda, and salt. Once combined, gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully blended. Don’t overmix, as that can lead to tough bars. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake it up

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the baking process as ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake your bars.

Step 6: Cool and slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. After cooling slightly, you can cut the bars into squares. Allow them to cool completely in the pan for a firmer texture. Enjoy your delicious Monster Cookie Bars even warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Monster Cookie Bars

Best ways to serve Monster Cookie Bars

Monster Cookie Bars can be served in a variety of delightful ways. You can enjoy them as a solo snack with a glass of cold milk or pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enhance the flavor and create a gooey experience.

Serving suggestions or pairings

To elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing Monster Cookie Bars with:

• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic sundae.
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top for added sweetness.
• Fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast.
• A sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.

These bars are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or with various accompaniments.

How to Store Monster Cookie Bars

Proper storage methods

To properly store your Monster Cookie Bars, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, you can either cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, they can be frozen as well. To freeze, cut the bars into squares and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours, or pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Tips to Make Monster Cookie Bars

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are some mistakes you should avoid when making Monster Cookie Bars:

1. Overmixing: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
2. Skipping the cooling time: Allow the bars to cool slightly before cutting. Skipping this step can lead to crumbling.
3. Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugars.

Helpful tips for better results

1. Use quality chocolate chips: High-quality chocolate chips enhance the flavor of the bars, so choose your favorites.
2. Chill the batter: If it’s too soft, chilling the batter for about 30 minutes before baking can help solidify it.
3. Experiment with add-ins: Don’t hesitate to play around with different mix-ins, like shredded coconut, raisins, or different types of candy for variety.

Variation of Monster Cookie Bars

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

While the classic Monster Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, here are some ideas for variations:

1. Nutty Monster Bars: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to give your bars a delightful crunch.
2. Oreo Monster Bars: Fold in crushed Oreo cookies for a fun twist on taste and texture.
3. Dried Fruit Delight: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet, chewy surprise.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

1. Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
3. Low Sugar Variation: Replace sugars with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.

FAQs

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

If your Monster Cookie Bars seem too crumbly, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the stated baking time. If they are too soft and not holding together, consider adding a bit more oats next time to help bind them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Monster Cookie Bars ahead of time. They store well and even get better after a day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

Many ingredients in this recipe can be substituted based on preference or allergies. For example, if you cannot use eggs, flax eggs are a great alternative. If you are avoiding gluten, use certified gluten-free oats. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins as well, such as different types of chips, candy, nuts, or dried fruits.

Now you have a comprehensive guide on how to prepare, serve, and store Monster Cookie Bars. Enjoy your baking adventure and the delightful rewards that come with sharing these chewy, flavorful treats. Happy baking!

Print