Monster Cookie Bars

Indulge in the ultimate cookie experience with these Monster Cookie Bars, a delightful fusion of your favorite flavors and textures in one irresistible treat. Packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and colorful candies, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert for a party or a comforting snack, these Monster Cookie Bars deliver on taste and nostalgia, bringing back the joy of baking with a twist. Easy to make and customize, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s or similar chocolate candies
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk together until smooth. Add the peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Add Oats and Mix-Ins: Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, M&M’s, and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

These Monster Cookie Bars are deliciously chewy and packed with flavor. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. Enjoy!