These Easy 4th of July Monster Cookies are a fun and colorful treat! Packed with oats, chocolate chips, and festive M&M’s, they’re perfect for any celebration.
They’re so big and chewy that you’ll find it hard to stop at just one! I like to make a batch and share with friends while watching fireworks. Who can resist a cookie this exciting? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peeanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is essential for that rich, nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower butter works great, too!
Sugars: The combination of granulated and brown sugar adds texture and sweetness. You can replace white sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the ingredients. For a vegan alternative, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water) for each egg.
M&M’s: Red, white, and blue M&M’s make these cookies festive. Feel free to use any type of chocolate candy or even chocolate chunks for a different look!
Sprinkles: The sprinkles add a fun touch. You can skip these if you prefer a less sweet cookie or choose any color theme for other holidays!
What’s the Secret for Chewy Monster Cookies?
To achieve that chewy texture, focus on a few key steps during preparation. Using old-fashioned rolled oats gives cookies their signature heartiness, and underbaking just slightly keeps them soft in the center.
- Mix the ingredients until just combined; overmixing can make cookies tough.
- Bake until edges are golden but centers look a bit soft — they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container to keep your cookies soft and chewy for days!
Easy 4th of July Monster Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup plain peanut butter chips (optional)
- 1 cup red, white, and blue M&M candies (or use festive colored candies)
- 1/4 cup red, white, and blue sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to bake. Make sure to give it a bit more time for cooling, and your cookies will be ready in about 30 minutes total! Perfect for a quick festive treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. Easy cleanup is always a plus!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat everything together until it becomes nice and creamy. This usually takes about a minute or so.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Crack in the two large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps get everything properly incorporated. Next, stir in the vanilla extract — it adds a lovely flavor!
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is distributed evenly throughout your dough.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture. Mix it until just combined — be careful not to overmix. Your dough is almost ready!
6. Stir in the Goodies:
Now, fold in the oats, chocolate chips, any peanut butter chips if using, M&M candies, and sprinkles. Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything by hand until evenly combined. It’s a colorful and festive mix!
7. Scoop and Bake:
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie since they’ll spread a bit while baking.
8. Baking Time:
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be golden around the edges but slightly soft in the center for that chewy texture.
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, take the trays out and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience pays off; they’ll be easier to handle when fully cooled!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These colorful, large, and chewy cookies are perfect for your 4th of July celebration! Serve them up and watch your friends and family enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy baking, and enjoy your festive Monster Cookies!
FAQ for Easy 4th of July Monster Cookies
Can I Use Crunchy Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter! It will add extra texture to the cookies, making them even more delightful. Just be sure to stir it well before measuring, as it can separate.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, consider freezing the cookies; they can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture in your cookies.
What If I Don’t Have M&Ms on Hand?
No worries! You can substitute the M&Ms with any chocolate candy, chocolate chunks, or even dried fruit like cranberries for an alternative flavor. Customize them to your liking!
