No-Bake Monster Cookies Recipe

Introduction

No-Bake Monster Cookies are a delightful treat packed with peanut butter, oats, chocolate, and colorful M&M’s. These bars come together quickly without any oven time, making them perfect for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert or snack.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons quick cooking oats, pulsed in food processor
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups quick cooking oats, not pulsed
• 10 tablespoons miniature M&M’s, divided (8 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare an 8-inch baking dish by lining it with foil or parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix well until fully combined.
3. Step 3: Stir in the 6 tablespoons of pulsed quick oats, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually fold in the 1½ cups of whole quick oats, then gently fold in 8 tablespoons of the miniature M&M’s.
4. Step 4: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the cookie mixture.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of miniature M&M’s over the chocolate layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
7. Step 7: Once set, remove from the refrigerator and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free option, substitute sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter.
• You can use rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats, but pulsing them slightly will help with texture.
• Try adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the mix for extra crunch and flavor.
• If you prefer a richer chocolate topping, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

Storage

Store the monster cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used and will add a bit of extra texture to the cookies.

Do I have to refrigerate these cookies?

Refrigeration helps the cookies set properly and keeps the topping firm, but if you prefer a softer texture, you can let them set at room temperature. Keep in mind they may be less firm without refrigeration.

No-Bake Monster Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 132 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

Delicious and easy No-Bake Monster Cookies packed with peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and colorful M&M’s. These bars are quick to prepare, combining creamy textures with crunchy candies, making them a perfect treat that requires no baking and sets in the refrigerator.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Base

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons quick cooking oats, pulsed in food processor
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups quick cooking oats, not pulsed
• 8 tablespoons miniature M&M’s

Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons miniature M&M’s

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8-inch baking dish with foil or parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Set aside.
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy to incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
3. Add peanut butter and dry ingredients: Stir in the creamy peanut butter until well blended. Add the 6 tablespoons of pulsed quick oats, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly fold in the remaining 1½ cups of quick oats and 8 tablespoons of miniature M&M’s until evenly mixed.
4. Press mixture into pan: Transfer the dough mixture into your prepared pan and firmly press it down in an even layer to create the cookie base.
5. Prepare chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate melts completely and forms a smooth ganache.
6. Top and garnish: Spread the melted chocolate ganache evenly over the cookie base. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of miniature M&M’s on top for a decorative and crunchy finish.
7. Chill to set: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set. Once set, lift the block from the pan using the foil or parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

Notes

• You can substitute creamy peanut butter with natural or chunky peanut butter for added texture.
• Make sure to pulse the initial oats finely to give a smoother cookie base.
• For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of butter and heavy cream.
• Press the mixture firmly to ensure bars hold together well after chilling.
• Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Microwave times may vary, so watch the chocolate closely to prevent burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: No-Bake Monster Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookies, Oatmeal Cookies, No-Bake Dessert, Easy Cookies, M&M Bars