I get so giddy just thinking about Halloween, and one of my absolute favorite ways to celebrate is by baking a batch of Monster Mash Cookies. These fun, colorful treats are perfect for this spooky season and will bring a smile to everyone’s face, kids and adults alike! I remember the first time I made them with my niece; we had flour flying everywhere and laughter echoing through the kitchen. I swear she might have consumed more chocolate chips than we put in the batter!
What makes these cookies so special is not only their whimsical colors but also the delightful mix of flavors and textures. You’ve got gooey chocolate chips, chewy oats, and a burst of frightful fun thanks to the candy decorations. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, attending a potluck, or just want to treat yourself, Monster Mash Cookies are a happy must-bake!
What’s in Monster Mash Cookies?
Butter: This is the star of any cookie, adding a rich flavor and making them delightfully chewy. I always opt for unsalted butter to better control the sweetness.
Brown Sugar: Using both brown sugar and granulated sugar creates that perfect balance of chewiness and crispy edges. Plus, brown sugar adds that lovely molasses flavor.
Granulated Sugar: The white sugar contributes to the cookies’ spread and gives them a nice sweetness that balances well with the other flavors.
Eggs: These act as a binding agent and give the cookies a wonderful texture. Room temperature eggs work best for smooth incorporation.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of any cookie recipe, this helps give structure. No one wants a cookie that falls apart!
Old-Fashioned Oats: They add texture and a bit of heartiness. Plus, oats make these cookies a bit more filling (not that you’ll want to stop at just one!).
Baking Soda: The rising agent that ensures your cookies stay fluffy and don’t turn into pancakes!
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this lovely extract brings out the sweetness and adds an aromatic touch.
Chocolate Chips: I usually go for semi-sweet chocolate chips to strike that perfect sweet spot. Feel free to mix in dark chocolate or even white chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
Halloween Candy: Any leftover Halloween candy works wonders here! Think M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or gummy eyeballs—let your creativity run wild!
Is Monster Mash Cookies Good for You?
Now, let’s be real. These cookies aren’t winning any health awards, but hey, it’s Halloween! That said, here are a few considerations:
Oats: They offer some fiber, which is a nice little benefit. Plus, they help keep you feeling full longer—perfect for those busy Halloween nights.
Chocolate: In moderation, dark chocolate is known for its antioxidants. So, if you sprinkle in a bit of dark chocolate, maybe we can justify having another cookie or two!
Sugar and Butter: Let’s face it, the sugar and butter content makes these treats less than ideal for everyday snacking. Enjoy them in moderation, and perhaps pair them with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Ingredients for Monster Mash Cookies (makes about 24 cookies)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup assorted Halloween candy (M&M’s, gummy eyeballs, etc.)
How to Make Monster Mash Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps to keep the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and mix in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want to keep those cookies soft!
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and assorted Halloween candy, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each scoop.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked—trust me, they’ll continue cooking on the baking sheet!
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Spooky Tips and Tricks
– Feel free to get creative with your Halloween candy—add mini marshmallows, sprinkles, or switch up the type of chocolate chips!
– If you like a more chewy cookie, underbake them a bit. For a crispier texture, leave them in for another minute or so.
– These cookies freeze beautifully! Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. They’re great for last-minute Halloween treats.
So, my dear friends, I invite you to dive into this delightful monster mash of flavors! Once you take that first bite, I promise you won’t be able to stop at just one cookie. I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your Halloween creations, so don’t forget to share your experiences! Happy baking and spooky snacking! 🕷️🍪🌕