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Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

Small-batch Monster Cookie Bars Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 21 reviews

These small-batch Monster Cookie Bars combine the perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, quick oats, colorful M&M’s, and chocolate chips for a chewy, sweet treat that’s ideal for satisfying cookie cravings without making a huge batch. Soft, gooey in the center with a lightly browned edge, these bars are quick to prepare and perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons (42g) salted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (132g) peanut butter, creamy or chunky
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup (67g) brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups (130g) quick/instant oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup (85g) M&M’s plus more for topping
  • 1/3 cup (56g) chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
  2. Mix Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until well combined and slightly lighter in color, about 1 minute.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Add Oats and Baking Soda: Stir in the quick oats. Sprinkle the baking soda over the mixture and mix until evenly combined.
  5. Fold in M&M’s and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the M&M’s and chocolate chips using a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
  6. Press Dough into Pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to form a uniform layer. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra M&M’s on top for added color and crunch.
  7. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. The center will look slightly pale and underbaked, which is perfect for a soft texture.
  8. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 45 minutes to firm up. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the bars from the pan, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into bars.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Monster Cookie Bars as a delicious snack or dessert. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use quick or instant oats for the best texture; old-fashioned oats can make the bars denser.
  • Softened butter is key for easy mixing and a creamy consistency.
  • Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly underdone for chewy bars.
  • You can substitute M&M’s with your favorite candy pieces or raisins for variation.
  • Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: monster cookie bars, peanut butter bars, quick cookies, easy cookie bars, M&M cookie bars, dessert bars, small batch cookie recipe

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/small-batch-monster-cookie-bars-recipe/