Ultimate Monster Cookies

Ultimate Monster Cookies are the kind of treat that makes everyone stop in their tracks. Packed with peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, colorful candy-coated chocolates, and a medley of tasty extras, they strike the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite. Each cookie is generously loaded, making them a fun and irresistible favorite for bake sales, holiday platters, or just a cozy afternoon at home.

While the exact origins of Monster Cookies are debated, they’ve been a beloved Midwestern tradition for decades. Originally designed to use up leftover baking ingredients, they’ve since become a cookie that’s intentionally made to be “over the top” in the best way possible.

With their vibrant pops of color, hearty texture, and melt-in-your-mouth richness, Ultimate Monster Cookies aren’t just for kids — they’re a nostalgic treat that brings out the kid in all of us. One batch, and you’ll understand why these cookies are truly legendary.

Recipe Yield: 30 cookies

INGREDIENTS

4 cups old-fashioned oats
1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
2 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup colorful candy-coated chocolates (such as M&M’s brand)
½ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup shredded sweetened coconut

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat and prepare:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream the base:
In a large mixing bowl, beat peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Add wet ingredients:
Beat in eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract until well incorporated.

4. Combine dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk oats, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

5. Mix together:
Gradually add dry mixture into wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

6. Fold in extras:
Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, candy-coated chocolates, walnuts, and shredded coconut.

7. Shape and bake:
Scoop dough into 2-tbsp portions and place onto prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each.

8. Bake to perfection:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden but centers still look slightly soft.

9. Cool and enjoy:
Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures the butter, peanut butter, and eggs blend smoothly for a uniform texture.
• Don’t Overbake: The key to soft, chewy Monster Cookies is pulling them out when the centers are still slightly underdone.
• Customize Your Mix-Ins: Swap walnuts for pecans, add white chocolate chips, or toss in dried cranberries for a seasonal twist.