Get ready to unleash the monster of all cookie bars that will make your taste buds go wild! These Chewy Monster Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat that combines the irresistible crunch of oats, the creamy richness of peanut butter, and a explosion of chocolate and M&M's in every single bite. Whether you're a cookie lover, a dessert enthusiast, or just someone looking for the most addictive sweet treat, these bars will have you coming back for more - and trust us, one bar is never enough!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup M&M's
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the creamy peanut butter to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the M&M's and chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for topping.
- Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved M&M's and chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a wire rack.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into 16 even squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips
- Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this ensures the perfect creamy texture.
- Don't overmix the batter! Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the bars tender and chewy.
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
- For extra fun, try using different colored M&M's to match seasons or holidays.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set properly.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, if they last that long!
- For an extra indulgent touch, warm the bars slightly before serving and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
