Monster Cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a little bit of everything in their cookie. They’re packed with chewy oats, crunchy peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and colorful M&M candies that give them a fun and festive look. Each bite is a mix of different textures and flavors that come together in the most satisfying way.
I love making Monster Cookies when I want something sweet but also a bit hearty. The oats and peanut butter make them feel extra filling, so they’re perfect for an afternoon snack or even a quick breakfast on busy mornings. One tip I have is to press the cookies down a bit before baking; it helps them cook evenly and get that perfect chewy-soft center.
These cookies are a crowd-pleaser at every gathering I bring them to. Kids go crazy for the M&M’s, but the grown-ups keep coming back for the peanut butter and oats combo. I always end up making a double batch because everyone wants seconds—and sometimes thirds! If you’re looking for a cookie that’s fun, tasty, and just a little bit nostalgic, Monster Cookies are it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: This gives the cookies their rich, creamy flavor and helps bind the dough. Use creamy for the best texture. If you have allergies, try almond or sunflower seed butter as a tasty alternative.
Rolled Oats: Oats add chewiness and heartiness to the cookies. Make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant or steel-cut, for the right texture.
M&M’s & Candy Eyes: These colorful candies bring fun and crunch. If you can’t find candy eyeballs, chocolate chips or mini marshmallows can work as cute substitutes.
Flour and Baking Soda: Use all-purpose flour for structure. Baking soda helps the cookies spread just right and gives a soft center.
How Do You Get Candy Eyes to Stick and Stay Cute?
Press the candy eyes gently onto the cookie dough balls before baking. This helps them stick as the dough spreads and bakes. Be careful not to push too hard, or the eyes may sink or break.
If you want the eyes extra secure, you can place them on warm cookies right after baking while the dough is still soft, then let them cool completely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – sturdy and flat for even baking and to keep cookie shapes nice.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – stops cookies from sticking and makes clean-up easy.
- Mixing bowls – one large for dough mixing, and another for dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – helps cream butter and sugar smoothly and mix dough evenly.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – for evenly sized cookies that bake evenly.
- Cooling rack – lets cookies cool properly without getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor that’s just as creamy.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a toasted flavor that complements oats.
- Try white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Mix in dried cranberries or raisins instead of M&M’s for a chewy, fruity contrast that brightens the cookie.
How to Make Monster Cookies with Candy Eyes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate pieces (colorful for classic, or blue for variety)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Candy eyeball decorations (as many pairs as cookies made)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Add in cooling time of about 15 minutes, and you have a fun treat ready in under 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly.
4. Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Then fold in the rolled oats, M&M’s (or your choice of candy), and chocolate chips if using. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the Cookies and Add Candy Eyes
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart to allow room for spreading. Gently press two candy eyeballs onto each cookie, making sure they stick well.
6. Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Stack your fun monster-faced cookies or serve individually. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime you want a cheerful treat.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy Peanut Butter?
Yes, but natural peanut butter has more oil and a thinner consistency, which can affect the dough texture. You might want to chill the dough before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.
How Should I Store Monster Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep candy eyes looking fresh, avoid stacking cookies until fully cooled and consider separating layers with parchment paper.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature slightly before scooping and adding candy eyes.
What Can I Substitute for Candy Eyeballs?
If you can’t find candy eyeballs, mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips with a dot of melted chocolate for the pupil work well. You can also skip them and just add extra M&M’s or candy pieces for color.
