Welcome to the world of baking! Today, we’re diving into a delightful treat: Gluten-Free Monster Cookies. These cookies are packed with flavor and loaded with fun ingredients like M&M’s and peanut butter. They’re not only delicious but also easy to make, even for beginners. So, get ready to impress your friends and family with these scrumptiously chewy cookies!
Why Monster Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite
Imagine a cookie that combines the rich taste of creamy peanut butter and the sweetness of M&M’s – that’s what these monster cookies offer! They are perfect for anyone who is gluten-sensitive but still wants to enjoy a classic dessert. You’ll love how gooey and chewy they are, making each bite a little flavor adventure. Plus, they’re customizable so that everyone can enjoy their preferred mix-ins!
Your Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Making these Gluten-Free Monster Cookies is a breeze! With just a few straightforward steps, you can have a batch ready to bake in no time. Follow along and see how easy it is to create this delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 3/4 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Jif or Skippy’s)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 2 3/4 cups Gluten-Free Rolled Oats
- 1 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups M&M’s
- 1/2 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 3-4 minutes or until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl.
- Add the peanut butter and mix for 1 minute longer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract.
- Stir in rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Set aside 1/4 cup of M&M’s for placing on the top of the cookies once removed from the oven. Fold in M&M’s and chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop cookie dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Press remaining M&M’s into the baked cookies. Let it sit for 5 minutes before removing.
Plating for Praise: Serving Your Creation
Once your cookies are out of the oven, it’s time to share them! These Gluten-Free Monster Cookies are perfect for parties, lunch boxes, or simply enjoying at home. Arrange them on a colorful plate for a fun presentation. You might even want to add a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream on the side for a delightful treat.
Make-Ahead Magic: Storage Solutions
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months! Just remember to let them cool completely before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Chef’s Secrets for Best Results
Here are some tips to ensure your Gluten-Free Monster Cookies turn out perfectly every time!
- Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve that light and fluffy texture.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the dough is key for flavor and achieving that perfect chewy texture.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid overcooking. Look for just a hint of golden color on the edges.
Variations
Feeling creative? Here are a few ideas to customize your Gluten-Free Monster Cookies:
- Nut Butter: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Add-ins: Mix in dried fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes for additional texture and taste.
- Chocolate: Use different types—white chocolate chips or colored M&M’s—to make your cookies unique and festive!
FAQs
Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free?
No, regular oats may contain gluten. Always look for oats labeled gluten-free.
What’s the best way to soften butter quickly?
You can cut the butter into small cubes and leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 10-second increments until soft.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter and peanut butter.
Conclusion
Baking these Gluten-Free Monster Cookies is a fun and fulfilling experience. You’ll create something delicious and adaptable, perfect for any occasion or craving. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a warm, gooey treat that everyone will love!
Making these cookies is not just about the result; it’s about enjoying the process, too. Don’t hesitate to share your cookie-making adventures or try out different variations. Happy baking!
Print
Gluten-Free Monster Cookies
- Total Time: 72 minutes
- Yield: 18
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delightful gluten-free cookies packed with creamy peanut butter and M&M’s, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 3/4 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Jif or Skippy’s)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 2 3/4 cups Gluten-Free Rolled Oats
- 1 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups M&M’s
- 1/2 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 3-4 minutes or until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl.
- Add the peanut butter and mix for 1 minute longer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract.
- Stir in rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Set aside 1/4 cup of M&M’s for placing on the top of the cookies once removed from the oven. Fold in M&M’s and chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop cookie dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Press remaining M&M’s into the baked cookies. Let set for 5 minutes before removing.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Remember to let them cool completely before freezing.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
