Big Giant Monster Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for any cookie lover. These oversized treats combine the deliciousness of peanut butter, chocolate, and M&Ms into every bite, making them perfect for sharing (or not!). Inspired by childhood memories of baking with my family, I love whipping up a batch when I want something comforting and fun. Whether you’re preparing for a cookie swap, a birthday party, or just a cozy night at home, these cookies are sure to impress—and satisfy!
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets Big Giant Monster Cookies apart from your average cookie is their size and the delightful combination of textures and flavors. Imagine biting into a chewy cookie packed with creamy peanut butter, mini chocolate candies, and the crunch of oats. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience! They’re incredibly easy to make, which makes them a go-to for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Plus, they’re kid-approved! Everyone from toddlers to adults will be clamoring for seconds.
"These cookies are a game-changer! They’re big, soft, and packed with flavor. My whole family loves them!" – Happy Baker
Step-by-step overview
Making Big Giant Monster Cookies is straightforward and fun! You’ll start by preparing your dry ingredients, then cream the butter and sugars for a smooth base. After mixing in your wet ingredients, you’ll combine everything with the dry ingredients and fold in those scrumptious M&Ms and chocolate chips. Chilling the dough is essential for thick, bakery-style cookies. This recipe typically takes about 30 minutes of prep before baking, but the payoff is truly worthwhile.
What you’ll need
To create these monster cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, 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
Feel free to substitute creamy almond butter for peanut butter if you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor!
Step-by-step instructions
- Whisk the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together and set aside.
- Combine the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s smooth. Add the granulated and brown sugars, mixing until creamy.
- Mix in the eggs and peanut butter: Add the room-temperature eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well integrated.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, then fold in the oats, mini M&Ms, and chocolate chips until combined.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop around 3 tablespoons of dough for each cookie onto the baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies: The cookies should bake for 14-16 minutes. Look for golden edges while ensuring the centers stay soft.
- Cool before serving: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Big Giant Monster Cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack, dessert after dinner, or even as a lunchbox treat. You can serve them with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream placed between two cookies for an amazing ice cream sandwich, or alongside fresh fruit for a balanced platter. For a fun twist, try warming them slightly to melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Big Giant Monster Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life by a few more days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Pack them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they should be good for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying! Always be sure to maintain food safety practices, especially with perishable items.
Helpful cooking tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Dough consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it firms up slightly.
- Cookie size variations: Though giant cookies are fantastic, you can always portion them smaller to adjust baking time (about 10-12 minutes for smaller cookies).
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Big Giant Monster Cookies! Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles. For a nutty crunch, throw in some chopped pecans or walnuts. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just as they come out of the oven for a sweet and salty contrast. You could also swap the oats for crushed graham crackers for a different texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, not including chilling time. Chilling the dough is essential for the right texture.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use almond butter instead of peanut butter, or swap out mini M&Ms for your favorite candies. Just keep in mind that these changes can affect flavor and texture.
How should I store my monster cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, and you can refrigerate or freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they are completely cooled before sealing.
