Welcome to a delicious adventure in baking! Our monster cookie bars recipe combines the perfect blend of sweetness and a touch of nostalgia. Imagine diving into a dessert that’s both an explosion of vibrant flavors and chewy textures. Packed with indulgent chocolate chips and colorful candies, these bars are a dream come true for cookie lovers.
Back when I was a child, my grandmother would always whip up a batch of cookies on Sunday afternoons. However, it was during one summer that we decided to transform the traditional cookie recipe into bars due to a lack of baking sheets. The result? A family staple was born. Baking these bars reminds me of those sunlit kitchens and the warmth of grandma’s hugs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a twist on traditional cookies, offering a bar format that is perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Unique and convenient, these bars eliminate the need to shape individual cookies. With their chewy texture and colorful appeal, they’re a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Plus, they’re easy to customize, making them versatile for various occasions.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter: Use unsalted to control the saltiness. For a richer flavor, try Irish butter.
- Brown Sugar: Gives the bars their chewy texture. Substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work best, depending on your preference.
- Candies: Brighten up the bars with M&Ms or your favorite candy-coated chocolates.
- Oats: Opt for rolled oats to maintain texture. Avoid quick oats as they may make the bars too dense.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s essential for achieving the right texture in your bars.
Step 3
Add in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4
Mix the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Step 5
Fold in chocolate chips and candies. Press the dough into the prepared baking pan evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow cooling before cutting into bars.
Storage Options
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, omit nuts or use sunflower seeds. Looking for a gluten-free alternative? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To add an autumnal twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are a delightful addition to any party spread. Serve them at birthday parties, picnics, or holiday gatherings. They’re also perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars vegan? Yes, you can! Replace butter with a plant-based substitute and use flaxseed meal as an egg replacement (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Additionally, ensure your chocolate chips and candies are vegan-friendly.
How do I prevent the bars from becoming too dry? Be careful not to over-bake your bars. Check their doneness around the 25-minute mark. The edges should be golden while the center may still look slightly under-baked, as they will continue to cook in the pan out of the oven.
Can I add extra toppings to the bars? Absolutely! Drizzle some melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Monster Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups quick oats
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups M&M's
- 1.25 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually blend in the flour and oats until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and M&M's.
- Spread the mixture evenly into an ungreased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.
