If you’re craving a cookie that’s big on flavor and packed with fun ingredients, Paula Deen’s Monster Cookie recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies combine peanut butter, oats, chocolate chips, and colorful candy pieces for a delightful treat that’s both chewy and crunchy. They’re perfect for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying as a sweet snack anytime.
We love how Paula Deen’s take on monster cookies brings together classic comfort flavors with a playful twist. This recipe is straightforward and yields cookies that are irresistibly soft in the center with just the right amount of crisp around the edges. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into making these crowd-pleasing cookies that are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To make Paula Deen’s Monster Cookie Recipe perfectly, we need to gather ingredients that balance flavor and texture. Below we break down the components into dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and mix-ins that bring the monster cookies to life.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients create the cookie’s structure and help achieve that chewy yet crisp texture Paula Deen’s recipe is famous for.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups (345 grams) | Sifted |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | – |
| Old-fashioned rolled oats | 3 cups (240 grams) | – |
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bring moisture, richness, and the unmistakable peanut butter flavor that defines these monster cookies.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup
- Light brown sugar – 1 cup, packed
- Large eggs – 2, at room temperature
- Creamy peanut butter – 1 ½ cups (smooth texture preferred)
- Pure vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
Mix-Ins and Toppings
The magic of Monster Cookie Recipe Paula Deen lies in the fun, colorful mix-ins that add bursts of sweetness and texture variety in every bite.
- Miniature semisweet chocolate chips – 1 ½ cups
- M&M’s® candy pieces – 1 ½ cups (choose classic or peanut variety)
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts – ½ cup for added crunch
“Mix-ins are what make monster cookies truly monstrous and memorable.”
With these carefully measured and selected ingredients, we set the foundation for crafting the irresistibly chewy and colorful monster cookies Paula Deen is known for.
Equipment Needed
To make Paula Deen’s Monster Cookie Recipe come to life perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. We want to ensure every step is smooth and our cookies bake evenly with the delightful texture we expect. Here’s what we need:
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two; one for dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients. Glass or metal bowls work best for thorough mixing.
- Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer speeds up creaming butter and sugars, ensuring a light, fluffy base for our monster cookies.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters. We measure flour, oats, and baking soda carefully to get that perfect chewy texture.
- Spatula: A flexible silicone spatula helps scrape down the bowl sides to mix ingredients evenly without waste.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: For consistent cookie sizes, we recommend a cookie scoop. It keeps portions even so cookies bake uniformly.
- Baking Sheets: Use heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheets for stable heat distribution.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and browning on the bottoms, giving us perfect edges.
- Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool completely with airflow beneath, preserving their chewy centers without getting soggy.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combining wet and dry ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming butter and sugar smoothly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Spatula | Mixing and scraping bowl edges |
| Cookie Scoop | Uniform cookie sizing |
| Baking Sheets | Baking cookies evenly |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevents sticking and burning |
| Cooling Rack | Proper cookie cooling |
Prep Work
Before we start mixing the ingredients for our Monster Cookie Recipe Paula Deen, it’s essential to complete some simple prep steps. These foundational tasks ensure even baking and help us achieve the perfect chewy yet crisp texture.
Preheating the Oven
First, we preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is critical for baking the cookies evenly. We want the oven fully heated before placing the cookie sheets inside, so the cookies begin baking immediately and expand correctly. Use the middle rack to promote uniform heat distribution.
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F | 10-15 minutes |
“Preheating the oven to the precise temperature is the key to the optimal rise and texture in Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies.”
Preparing Baking Sheets
Next, we prepare our baking sheets to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. We recommend lining the sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for the best results. This approach helps the bottoms bake without burning and allows easy removal of the cookies once baked.
- If using parchment paper, tear sheets slightly larger than your pan.
- Silicone mats should be placed flat without wrinkles.
We also suggest using our cookie scoop to portion out uniform cookie dough balls onto the prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Key reminders:
- Avoid greasing the sheets if using parchment or silicone mats.
- Use heavy-duty baking sheets for consistent heat conduction.
Tip: Place baking sheets on the middle oven rack for an evenly baked batch of classic Paula Deen Monster Cookies.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to bake the iconic Monster Cookie Recipe Paula Deen perfectly every time. We’ll guide you through mixing, adding mix-ins, portioning, baking, and cooling to achieve those chewy centers and crisp edges.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
- Mix in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the dough is smooth and homogenous.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and rolled oats.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain chewy texture.
Adding the Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s® candy pieces with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking the candies.
- Be careful not to overmix to preserve the vibrant colors and textures.
Portioning the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons) to portion the dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- This step ensures uniform cookie size for consistent baking results.
Baking Time and Temperature
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 10 to 12 mins | Bake until edges are golden |
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden, but the centers remain soft.
- Watch closely as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cooling and Setting
- Remove cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and cool completely to retain that ideal chewy center.
- Cooling properly prevents breakage and maintains Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies signature texture.
Storage Tips
To keep our Monster Cookies Paula Deen fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Follow these tips to preserve their texture and flavor for days.
Storing at Room Temperature
Place cooled cookies in an airtight container.
Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
Cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.
Refrigeration
If we want to extend freshness beyond 5 days, refrigerate the cookies.
Use an airtight container to avoid moisture absorption.
Allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
For longer storage, freezing is ideal.
Wrap individual cookies or small batches tightly in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe resealable bag or container.
Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Quick Reference Storage Table
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Separate layers with parchment paper |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 2 weeks | Bring to room temperature before serving |
| Freezing | Wrapped + airtight | Up to 3 months | Thaw before eating or warm in oven |
Remember, maintaining an airtight seal is critical for preserving the chewy texture and rich flavors of our Monster Cookies Paula Deen. Let’s keep these treats at their best, so every bite is as satisfying as the first.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience with Paula Deen’s Monster Cookie Recipe, we recommend several creative and delightful serving options to showcase these colorful, chewy treats.
Classic Presentation
Serve the cookies on a large platter at room temperature. Their signature chewy center and crisp edges deliver the perfect bite every time. Arrange the cookies neatly with vibrant M&M’s® facing up to highlight their colorful appeal.
Pairing Ideas
Enhance the monster cookie enjoyment by pairing with these complementary accompaniments:
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Cold glass of milk | Balances sweetness and refreshes the palate |
| Hot coffee | Adds rich bitterness to contrast the cookie’s sweetness |
| Iced tea | Provides a light and refreshing beverage option |
Dessert Variations
Elevate the cookies into eye-catching desserts:
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
- Cookie Crumble Topping: Crumble cookies over yogurt or pudding for texture.
- Dipped Cookies: Dip half in melted chocolate and allow to set for an elegant finish.
Party and Gifting Tips
Monster cookies make great party favors or gifts. Wrap individual cookies in cellophane with a colorful ribbon. For gatherings, serve in decorative tins lined with parchment paper to keep freshness and display nicely.
“The vibrant colors combined with the rich taste make these cookies a showstopper that everyone will love.”
By offering these thoughtful serving suggestions, we ensure our Monster Cookie Recipe Paula Deen gets the appreciation it deserves wherever we share it.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Monster Cookie recipe brings together classic flavors and fun textures that everyone will love. With its easy steps and accessible ingredients, it’s a treat that fits perfectly into any baking routine. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying a quiet moment at home, these cookies never disappoint.
By following the tips and techniques we’ve shared, you’ll create cookies that are as delicious as they are visually appealing. They’re a wonderful way to add a little sweetness and color to your day, making every bite a memorable experience. Let’s get baking and enjoy every chewy, crispy, flavorful moment together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Paula Deen’s Monster Cookies?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, rolled oats, unsalted butter, sugars, eggs, peanut butter, vanilla extract, chocolate chips, and M&M’s® candy pieces. These combine to give the cookies their chewy, colorful, and flavorful character.
What equipment is essential for baking these cookies?
Key tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, heavy-duty baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare before baking the Monster Cookies?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Use a cookie scoop to portion dough balls and place them evenly spaced on the sheets for best results.
What is the baking time and temperature for these cookies?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers stay soft and chewy.
How should I store Monster Cookies to keep them fresh?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days with parchment paper between layers. Refrigerate for longer freshness or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
Can I customize the recipe with different mix-ins?
Yes, while chocolate chips and M&M’s® are traditional, you can add nuts or other candies to suit your taste, but be mindful to keep the dough balanced for proper texture.
What serving suggestions enhance these cookies?
Serve at room temperature on a platter, paired with milk, coffee, or iced tea. Try creative options like ice cream sandwiches, cookie crumbles, or dipped cookies for a fun twist.
Are these cookies suitable for beginner bakers?
Absolutely! The recipe is straightforward and perfect for all skill levels, with clear steps and simple ingredients making it easy to follow and bake successfully.