We’ve always been huge fans of Paula Deen’s down-home recipes and her Monster Cookies stand out as a crowd-pleaser. These hearty treats blend oats peanut butter and a mix of goodies like chocolate chips for that irresistible chewiness making them perfect for family gatherings or a quick sweet fix.
As Southern cooking enthusiasts we appreciate how Paula’s version adds a comforting twist to the classic monster cookie. It’s a recipe that’s easy to whip up yet delivers bold flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re a baking newbie or a pro let’s explore why this Paula Deen Monster Cookies recipe is a must-try in your kitchen.
Ingredients
As we dive into our take on Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies, these hearty ingredients blend oats, peanut butter, and chocolate chips to create a chewy, irresistible treat packed with comforting flavors and textures that make it perfect for family gatherings.
We’ll list the ingredients in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened, to ensure it creams smoothly for the base)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (for a sweet, crisp edge)
- Light brown sugar: 1 cup (packed, to add rich, caramel-like depth)
- Peanut butter: 1 ½ cups (creamy variety, for that signature nutty creaminess)
- Large eggs: 2 (room temperature, to help bind and add moisture)
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons (pure, to enhance the overall warmth and aroma)
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon (to help the cookies rise and achieve a perfect chew)
- Quick-cooking oats: 3 cups (for hearty texture and a wholesome feel)
- Semisweet chocolate chips: 1 cup (for melty, chocolatey bursts in every bite)
- Colorful M&Ms: 1 cup (for fun pops of color and candy-coated crunch)
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our key ingredients for Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies, we turn to the essential tools that make baking these chewy, irresistible treats straightforward and enjoyable. Having the right equipment ensures our cookies turn out perfectly textured and flavorful every time.
To prepare efficiently, we’ll need the following items. We recommend organizing them beforehand to maintain a smooth workflow in the kitchen:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of medium and large stainless steel or glass mixing bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients. These help us achieve even mixing without any lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate stainless steel measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements of ingredients like sugar and peanut butter, ensuring our Monster Cookies have the ideal balance of sweetness and chewiness.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A reliable handheld electric mixer or stand mixer with beaters to cream butter and sugars smoothly. This tool saves us time and effort for a consistent dough.
- Baking Sheets: Two or three rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking of our cookie batches.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A sturdy silicone spatula or wooden spoon for folding in oats, chocolate chips, and M&Ms, allowing us to mix gently without overworking the dough.
- Oven: A standard preheated oven set to the required temperature for baking. We always suggest using an oven thermometer for accuracy to avoid under or over-baking our treats.
- Cooling Rack: An optional but helpful wire cooling rack to let the cookies cool evenly after baking, preserving their signature soft centers and crisp edges.
With these tools at hand, we’re all set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps and create Paula Deen’s beloved Monster Cookies that everyone will crave.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through preparing Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies with confidence and ease. We will break down the process into simple, step-by-step actions to achieve those irresistible chewy textures and rich flavors.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, we prepare our workspace to ensure everything flows smoothly. First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking that results in golden, aromatic cookies. Next, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless—picture the satisfying crunch as these treats release easily. Measure out 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 3 cups quick-cooking oats, 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup colorful M&Ms, placing them in separate bowls for quick access and to maintain precise measurements.
Mix Ingredients
We start by combining the wet and dry elements to create a dough that’s packed with nutty and chocolatey goodness. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy—imagine the sweet, buttery aroma filling your kitchen. Add the creamy peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, then beat for another minute until fully incorporated, forming a smooth base that promises a moist, flavorful bite. In a separate bowl, stir together the baking soda and quick-cooking oats, then gradually add this to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Finally, gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and colorful M&Ms with a spatula, ensuring even distribution for those delightful bursts of chocolate and color in every cookie.
Scoop and Bake
With our dough ready, we shape and bake the cookies to achieve that perfect balance of crisp edges and soft centers. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop 2-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading—envision the dough transforming into plump, golden mounds as it bakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through for uniform cooking, until the edges are lightly browned and the tops are set but still soft in the middle. As they bake, you’ll catch whiffs of the warm, peanut-buttery scent mingled with melting chocolate, signaling Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies are nearly ready to delight.
Cool and Store
Once baked, we cool the cookies to lock in their chewy texture and prepare them for storage. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on them for 5 minutes to firm up, allowing the heat to distribute evenly for that ideal soft interior. Transfer them to a cooling rack using a spatula, and cool completely for about 10 minutes before storing—this step enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess. To keep these treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature when you’re craving that hearty, chocolate-studded goodness again.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies is how easily we can prepare them in advance, allowing us to enjoy fresh-baked treats without last-minute hassle. This approach builds on our earlier storage tips, ensuring the dough retains its chewy texture and rich flavors for family gatherings or quick snacks.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
To get started, we recommend mixing the dough as outlined in the step-by-step instructions, but stop right after incorporating the oats, chocolate chips, and M&Ms. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents over-mixing, which could affect the cookies’ signature soft centers.
Storage Options
We have two reliable methods for storing make-ahead dough, each designed for different timelines:
- Refrigerator Storage: For short-term use, shape the dough into balls or keep it in a bowl, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method helps the flavors meld, resulting in even more delicious, peanut butter-infused cookies.
- Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, form the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1 hour until solid. Then, transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining its hearty oat base and chocolatey goodness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Enhances flavor melding; quick access |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Extends shelf life; prevents spoilage |
Thawing and Baking Tips
When we’re ready to bake, thaw refrigerated dough in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes for easy scooping. For frozen dough, let it thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours or on the counter for 1-2 hours until workable. Preheat the oven to 350°F as before, and bake the dough balls for 10-12 minutes to achieve those perfect crisp edges and gooey centers. Always use a lined baking sheet to avoid sticking, and remember that make-ahead dough might need an extra minute or two in the oven for optimal results. This simple strategy lets us whip up Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies effortlessly, keeping our kitchens full of that comforting, homemade charm.
Conclusion
We’ve had a blast diving into Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies with you
They’re more than just a treat—they’re a simple way to create lasting memories
We’re confident you’ll find joy in baking and sharing them as we do
Give it a go and let these cookies become your new favorite kitchen staple
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies?
Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies are hearty, chewy treats packed with oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and M&Ms. They’re perfect for family gatherings or quick snacks, offering a comforting twist on classic recipes that’s easy for beginner and experienced bakers alike. This recipe emphasizes simple ingredients for a delightful, homemade charm.
What ingredients are needed for Monster Cookies?
Key ingredients include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, large eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, quick-cooking oats, semisweet chocolate chips, and colorful M&Ms. Each is selected for optimal texture and flavor, listed in the order they’re used to ensure easy preparation.
What equipment do I need to bake Monster Cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer, baking sheets with parchment paper, a spatula or wooden spoon, and a preheated oven. A cooling rack is optional but helps with even cooling, ensuring perfect results for novice and pro bakers.
How do I make Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Cream butter and sugars, then mix in peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla. Add baking soda, oats, chocolate chips, and M&Ms. Scoop dough onto sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Cool on racks for best texture.
Can I prepare the Monster Cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, mix the dough up to adding oats, chips, and M&Ms for freshness. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to enhance flavors, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, then follow the recipe for fresh cookies with minimal effort.
How should I store baked Monster Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for a week to keep them chewy. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy their irresistible texture.