Easy Monster Cookie Bars Recipe
Looking for a delightful treat that’s both comforting and easy to make? These easy monster cookie bars are the perfect solution to your mid-week cravings! With a delightful mix of oats, colorful candies, and peanut butter goodness, these treats are sure to become a household favorite and are ready in a flash.
When I was a child, weekends were for baking with my grandmother. Her kitchen always had the most incredible aromas wafting through it. One of my fondest memories is of us baking a batch of these cookie bars. We would spread a blanket in the backyard and have ourselves a little picnic with fresh milk and these chewy, delicious bars. Each bite takes me back to those sunlit afternoons and heartwarming giggles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a dependable crowd-pleaser. It’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring just one bowl, which means minimal cleanup. The bars are wonderfully chewy, loaded with texture from the rolled oats, and bursting with flavor thanks to the perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate. Plus, they are highly adaptable to include your favorite add-ins such as nuts or dried fruit.
Ingredients Notes
Gathering your cookie bar ingredients is easy. Rolled oats provide a hearty base, and while any peanut butter will work, natural peanut butter often results in a richer flavor. For substitutions, you can swap butter with a dairy-free variety for a vegan option, and use dark chocolate chips in place of candies for a more sophisticated taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2
In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, blending well after each addition.
Step 3
Stir in oats, flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in your chocolate candies or chips, ensuring everything is well distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4
Spread the cookie dough evenly in your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down gently into the corners and smooth out the top.
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Step 5
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden. Remove from the oven and let cool entirely before cutting into squares.
Storage Options
Store your leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag before freezing. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, oatmeal or almond flour can replace the regular flour for a gluten-free version. You can also experiment by adding shredded coconut, or use almond butter instead of peanut butter to change up the taste profile for allergy considerations or just a new flavor adventure.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful bars are perfect for an afternoon snack with a cool glass of milk or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They’re also fantastic for school lunches or as a sweet addition to a brunch buffet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookie bars vegan?
Yes, you can easily make them vegan by using dairy-free butter and substituting eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars are too crumbly, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately. Adding an extra egg or a touch more butter can help bind them better. Also, allow them to cool completely before cutting, as this firms up the texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use two 9×13 inch pans or a larger pan if you have one, adjusting the baking time as necessary to ensure they are cooked through.
So whether you’re looking to recreate fond childhood memories or just need a quick dessert for gatherings, these easy monster cookie bars are a mess-free, versatile choice that everyone will enjoy. Try them today, and watch them disappear before you know it!
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Easy Monster Cookie Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.75 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&Ms regular or mini
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and M&Ms until evenly distributed. Spread the dough into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center is still soft. Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
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