Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re hunting for a fun, easy-to-make treat that’s bursting with color, texture, and all the nostalgic flavors of a childhood favorite, look no further than these Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars. They combine creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, colorful M&M’s, and melty chocolate chips into one wildly satisfying bar that’s just the right size for sharing—or not! This recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients come together to make something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or a last-minute snack, Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars never disappoint.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in bringing the Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars to life. From the richness of peanut butter to the sweet bursts of M&M’s, every component adds a unique element to the flavor and texture.

• 3 tablespoons (42g) salted butter: Softened butter adds creaminess and helps bind the bars while giving them a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup (132g) peanut butter, creamy or chunky: The star ingredient for that classic nutty flavor and chewiness; chunky adds crunch, creamy keeps it smooth.
• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and a slight crisp texture.
• 1/3 cup (67g) brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
• 1 large egg: Essential for binding everything together and giving structure to the bars.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, warm aroma.
• 1 1/2 cups (130g) quick/instant oats: Gives chewiness and wholesome fiber, making the bars hearty and satisfying.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Lightens the texture slightly and helps with rise.
• 1/2 cup (85g) M&M’s plus more for topping: Adds vibrant color and a fun, crunchy chocolate surprise in every bite.
• 1/3 cup (56g) chocolate chips: Melts just right to provide pockets of gooey, rich chocolate throughout the bars.

How to Make Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a loaf pan. Line it with parchment paper so the bars come out easily in one solid piece. This setup makes slicing and serving a breeze while keeping cleanup easy too.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, and both sugars. Beat them together until the mixture looks smooth and a little lighter in color, about a minute. This creaming process incorporates air, which helps give your Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars a tender texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. This step helps bind all the ingredients to create that chewy yet soft bar texture we love.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the oats and baking soda over the wet ingredients and gently fold them together. Quick oats absorb moisture differently than rolled oats, giving your bars a lovely moist, chewy bite without being dense.

Step 5: Fold in the Candy

Stir in the M&M’s and chocolate chips with a wooden spoon or spatula. This is where the fun starts to shine through—the colorful M&M’s and melty chocolate chips give these bars their trademark Monster Cookie look and taste.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the dough to your prepared pan and press it down evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle a few extra M&M’s on top for that perfect finishing touch. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You want the edges lightly browned while the center remains just slightly pale and soft—this ensures chewy, moist bars that hold together but aren’t dry.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let your Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars cool in the pan for about 45 minutes. This rest time allows them to firm up so they slice cleanly without crumbling. After that, lift them out using the parchment and cut into squares or rectangles. Get ready for instant happiness in every bite!

How to Serve Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars

Garnishes

For an extra pop, top your bars with a drizzle of melted peanut butter or a sprinkle of sea salt. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sweetness and a festive touch. These little details make your presentation irresistible.

Side Dishes

Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. If you want a treat during the day, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a cozy cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars on a decorative plate with colorful napkins to match the M&M’s hues. For parties, cut them into bite-sized squares and serve on skewers or toothpicks for easy grabbing. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for lovely homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This maintains their chewy texture and soft centers perfectly.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them.

Reheating

If you enjoy warm bars, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings out the melty chocolate and softens the peanut butter for a freshly-baked feeling that’s oh so satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for these bars?

Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works well, but since it’s thinner and less sweet, your bars may be a bit more crumbly and less sweet. Adjust the sugar slightly if you want a sweeter bar.

What is the best type of oats to use?

Quick or instant oats are preferred for this recipe because they blend smoothly into the batter creating a chewy texture without large oat flakes. Avoid using steel-cut or old-fashioned oats as they change the texture noticeably.

Can I substitute M&M’s with other candies?

Definitely! Feel free to swap M&M’s for other colorful candies, Reese’s Pieces, or even dried fruit. Just keep the quantity the same for consistency in texture and sweetness.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, by using a dairy-free butter alternative and ensuring your chocolate chips are dairy-free, you can enjoy these bars without dairy. The peanut butter keeps the bars rich and flavorful.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be just turning golden brown while the center looks slightly underdone and pale. Overbaking will make them dry, so it’s better to err on the side of softer centers.

Final Thoughts

These Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars bring together the perfect balance of nutty, sweet, chewy, and chocolatey, all packed into a fun, colorful treat you can whip up anytime. Their simplicity is their charm, making them an ideal quick bake when you want something special without fuss. Give this recipe a try and watch how these bars quickly become a beloved favorite in your home too!

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