No Bake Monster Cookies

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for No Bake Monster Cookies
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make No Bake Monster Cookies
4. Why You'll Love This Recipe
5. Recipe FAQ
6. Serving FAQ
7. Storage FAQ
8. JUMP TO RECIPE

Looking for a sweet treat with no baking required? These no bake monster cookies are the perfect snack! Packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate, and M&Ms, they are easy and fun to make. You won’t want to stop at just one!

This recipe is simple and comes with a step-by-step guide. We’ve included helpful photos and tips throughout to make it even easier. Plus, check out our pro tips and answers to the most frequently asked questions!

Monster cookies got their name after the original recipe burned through two mixers due to its massive size. The cookies became known for their creativity, as nearly anything can be added to the mix. Originally created when the inventor ran out of flour and used oatmeal as a substitute, monster cookies have evolved into a fun, adaptable treat.

This recipe is a smaller batch compared to the original 1971 version, which called for three pounds of peanut butter. It’s simple to double without damaging your mixer, making these no-bake cookie bars the perfect snack for everyone.

What you'll need to make this recipe for No Bake Monster Cookies:

• 6 tablespoons of butter, softened
• 6 tablespoons of sugar
• ¼ cup of brown sugar
• ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons of quick-cooking oats, pulsed in a food processor
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• 1½ cups quick oats, not pulsed in the food processor
• 10 tablespoons of miniature M&M’s, divided into 8 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons of heavy cream

One of the things readers like best about this recipe is that it's simple to personalize your no-bake M&M cookies recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding fun extras to make your cookies just the way you like them. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

• Substitute Peanut Butter: Use almond butter for a different flavor or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Add white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for extra sweetness and texture.
• Substitute M&Ms: Use mini chocolate candies or your favorite candy mix for a unique twist in your no-bake bars.
• Add Coconut Flakes: Toss in shredded coconut for an extra chewy texture and a bit of tropical flavor.

Get ready for some fun with these no-bake monster cookies! Follow our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips below. Let’s get started and make these delicious, easy cookie bars!

FIRST STEP: Line an 8-inch baking dish with foil or parchment paper.

SECOND STEP: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars. Add the peanut butter and mix well.

THIRD STEP: Place six tablespoons of quick-cooking oats into a food processor and pulse until finely ground.

FOURTH STEP: Add the ground oats to the large mixing bowl with the sugar and peanut butter mixture. Add the vanilla and salt.

FIFTH STEP: Slowly add 1½ cups of oats and a half cup of M&M’s to the mixture, stirring as you go.

SIXTH STEP: Press the mixture into the prepared pan.

SEVENTH STEP: Melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a small bowl in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.

Once the chocolate is smooth, spread it over the cookie dough mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining two tablespoons of M&M’s.

EIGHTH STEP: Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, or until set. Cut into squares and serve.

These no-bake monster cookies are perfect for so many occasions! Whether you’re celebrating or just craving a sweet treat, here are some great ways to serve them:

• For Kids’ Parties: Monster cookies make a fun addition to any kids' party. With M&Ms and chocolate chips, they’re a crowd favorite. Serve them alongside butter finger cupcakes or rice krispie treats for even more fun!

• For Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are great for the holiday season. Whether it’s Christmas or Halloween, they add a colorful touch. Pair them with chocolate peanut clusters or snickers cups for a festive treat.

• For After-School Snacks: Monster cookies are perfect for an after-school snack! Kids will love the sweet, chewy texture, and they’re easy to pack. Add some milk or a fruit smoothie on the side for a complete snack.

These no-bake monster cookies have earned their place as a favorite for so many reasons. They’re simple to make, fun, and pack tons of flavor. Here’s why this recipe is a reader favorite:

Easy to Make: No baking required! This recipe is perfect for a quick and simple treat.

Fun to Customize: Toss in your favorite mix-ins to make them truly your own.

Kid-Friendly: With M&Ms and peanut butter, kids love these cookies, and they’re easy to help with.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From school snacks to holiday parties, these cookies fit every event.

• Deliciously Chewy: The oats and peanut butter give these cookies the perfect chewy texture.

These no-bake monster cookies are a crowd-pleasing favorite that will have everyone coming back for more!

Can I use other types of peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use smooth or crunchy peanut butter. Just be sure the peanut butter is creamy for better texture.

How long do these no-bake monster cookies take to set?
These cookies should set for 2 hours in the fridge. Be sure they are firm before serving.

Can I add more candy to the mix?
Absolutely! You can add extra M&Ms, chocolate chips, or any candy you like for more fun and flavor.

Do I need to refrigerate these cookies?
Yes, refrigerate the cookies for the best texture. This helps them firm up and hold together.

Can I make a larger batch of these no-bake cookies?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you want to make more. Just be sure to mix it well!

Are these cookies safe for kids to make?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for kids to help with! They’ll love stirring and adding the ingredients.

Can I make these cookies without M&Ms?
Yes, you can replace M&Ms with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or any candy you prefer.

How do I know when the cookie mixture is ready?
The cookie mixture is ready when it holds together without being too sticky or too dry. It should form a thick dough.

Can I use a different nut butter in place of peanut butter?
Yes, you can swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different taste.

What’s the best way to serve no-bake monster cookies at a party?
Serve them on a large platter in bite-sized portions. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Should I serve these cookies immediately or wait?
You can serve these cookies as soon as they set. Let them cool in the fridge for about two hours before slicing.

Can I decorate these cookies for a special occasion?
Yes! Add sprinkles, extra candies, or drizzle chocolate on top to make them festive for any occasion.

Are these cookies good for kids' parties?
Yes! Kids love the colorful M&Ms, and these cookies are fun to eat. They’re perfect for a party treat.

How do I serve no-bake monster cookies at a picnic?
Pack the cookies in an airtight container. They travel well and make a fun, easy snack for picnics.

Can I serve these cookies for dessert at a holiday dinner?
Definitely! These cookies make a colorful, fun dessert. Serve them alongside other sweets for a festive touch.

For the best storage results, follow these directions, tips, and tricks to keep your no-bake monster cookies fresh. Storing them correctly helps maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Can I make no-bake monster cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to serve. They’ll stay fresh for several days.

What’s the best way to store no-bake monster cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to two weeks. Wrapping them securely prevents them from drying out and keeps their flavor intact. This also helps avoid absorbing any odors or flavors from other items in the fridge.

Can I freeze no-bake monster cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to one month. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container.

How do I thaw frozen no-bake monster cookies?
Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about thirty minutes before serving. This helps restore their texture.

How do I keep the cookies from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers of cookies when storing them in a container.