Christmas Monster Cookies – Hearty Food Ideas

As a food enthusiast, nothing sparks my joy quite like the holiday season. The joy of sharing warm, delicious treats with friends and family fills my heart. One of my favorite go-to recipes during this time is the almighty Christmas Monster Cookies! 

These cookies pack a delightful punch. They’re a festive blend of flavors and textures that make them the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. But before we dive into these colorful delights, let’s chat about what pairs perfectly with them.

How about a steaming mug of creamy hot cocoa? Seriously, there’s nothing like snuggling up with a giant cookie while sipping on hot cocoa topped with marshmallows. This pairing is not just delicious; it brings an element of coziness to winter get-togethers. Just imagine it—a cold evening, the warmth of the fireplace, and a plate of Christmas Monster Cookies in front of you. Now, let's uncover the magic behind these festive treats!

What Are Christmas Monster Cookies?

Christmas Monster Cookies are oversized treats filled with a variety of fun ingredients. They are essentially a mashup of classic cookie components and festive surprises. You get your oats, chocolate, and M&M’s all in one giant bite. Imagine biting into a chewy, sweet cookie that explodes with flavor and crunch. They are more than just cookies; they are a celebration of texture and taste!

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of Christmas Monster Cookies:

• 2 cups thick-cut old-fashioned rolled oats
  
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
  
• 1 cup mini pretzel sticks, gently crushed
  
• 1 cup chopped semi-sweet chocolate chunks or chips
  
• 2 sticks (1 cup) room temperature salted butter
  
• 2 teaspoons baking soda (for that chewy lift)
  
• 1/3 cup chopped roasted pecans (adds crunch and nuttiness)
  
• 1/2 cup organic granulated cane sugar
  
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for a cozy undertone)
  
• 2 large eggs + 1 extra egg yolk, at room temperature
  
• 1/2 teaspoon flaky kosher salt
  
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean extract
  
• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  
• 1/2 cup smooth white chocolate chips
  
• 1 1/4 cups festive holiday M&M’s (or any colorful candy-coated chocolates)
  

How to Make Christmas Monster Cookies?

Before we jump into the steps, let’s take a moment to talk about the joy of baking. The kitchen becomes a playground where ingredients dance together and magic happens. Now, let’s get those aprons on and prepare to create some deliciousness!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, gather all your ingredients. It helps to have everything around you. This way, you avoid that last-minute scramble for flour or sugar. I always lay everything out on the counter—it's like having all my soldiers ready for battle.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the room temperature butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The color should turn creamy—like the sunshine on a warm spring afternoon. The sugar and butter mixture lays the foundation for the cookie’s sweetness.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in your eggs, plus the extra yolk for that richness. Add the pure vanilla extract. Mix well until the concoction is combined. The aroma should be heavenly by now, like a warm hug for your senses.

Step 4: Dry Ingredients Unite

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Once mixed, slowly add this dry blend to your butter mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; you’re not making bread here.

Step 5: Fold In the Fun Stuff

Now comes the best part! Fold in the oats, chocolate chunks, white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, and crushed pretzels gently. This is where your cookies get their signature crunch and that festive vibe from the colorful M&M’s. Just imagine each bite being an explosion of flavors.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

For the best results, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough for at least an hour. I know, waiting can be tough, but chilling helps the flavors mingle and creates a better texture. If you’re impatient like me, you could even throw it in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

As your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps keep the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop, drop generous portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave space between them, as they will spread. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. The centers should still be a little soft; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your cookies cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Patience is key! Every whiff will drive you wild, but trust me, the wait is worth it.

Notes (Tips)

To elevate your baking experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality butter can significantly affect the taste and texture.
  
• Measuring Flour: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup, then level it with a knife for accuracy. Don’t scoop; it packs the flour down, leading to dry cookies.
  
• Melted Butter Option: You can use melted butter for a slightly different texture, resulting in chewier cookies.
  
• Mix-ins Flexibility: Feel free to swap out chocolate chips or nuts based on your preference. It’s all about personalization here!
  
• Don’t Overbake: Pull them out when they seem slightly underbaked. They continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool down.
  

Storage Tips

You can store your Christmas Monster Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. To keep them fresher for longer, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. For longer storage, freeze your dough before baking. You can scoop out the dough balls, freeze them, and bake them straight from the freezer whenever the cookie cravings strike.

Nutrition Information

Each cookie contains approximately:

• Calories: 210
  
• Protein: 2g
  
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  
• Fat: 10g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sugar: 15g
  

Nutrition can vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a hot cocoa that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ flavors. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top? Yes, please!
  
• On a Holiday Dessert Platter: Stack these cookies high on a decorative platter with other festive treats like gingerbread or peppermint bark. It instantly elevates your dessert table.
  
• As a Gift: Package individual cookies in festive bags tied with ribbons. They make sweet, homemade gifts for friends, teachers, or neighbors who appreciate a handmade touch.
  
• At a Cookie Swap Party: Bring a batch to a cookie swap, where everyone shares sweet creations. Trust me—your cookies will stand out.
  
• Infused with Ice Cream: Sandwich two cookies with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delightful twist on an ice cream sandwich. You’ll thank me later.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Christmas Monster Cookies?

If you’re feeling adventurous or are missing some ingredients, here are some alternatives you could consider:

• Brown Sugar: You can replace dark brown sugar with light brown sugar or even coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
  
• Quinoa Flakes: Instead of oats, use quinoa flakes for a gluten-free option, while still adding a chewy texture.
  
• Nut Butters: Swap out some butter for peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty flavor kick. Just reduce the sugar slightly to balance it out.
  
• Crushed Cookies: Instead of pretzels, try adding crushed graham crackers or your favorite cookie for extra flavor.
  
• Try Different Mix-Ins: Instead of M&M’s, use dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a chewy surprise.
  

Conclusion

Christmas Monster Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the season. Packed with flavor, they are a hit with all ages. Whether you enjoy them with a cozy drink or share them as gifts, these cookies bring joy to every occasion. 

Baking these cookies isn’t merely about following a recipe; it's about creating happiness and memories. So, put on your favorite holiday tunes, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up some cookie magic! Happy baking!

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