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Thick & Chewy Monster Cookies

June 10, 2016 by thedomesticrebel | 47 Comments

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Thick & Chewy Monster Cookies on wire rack with mini M&MsThick & Chewy Monster Cookies – not just for monsters.

So I have a bone to pick real quick. If you’re not up for a good old-fashioned bone pickin’, scroll down to the recipe and I’ll catch up with ya later.

ANYWAY.

I was in the book store yesterday, specifically in the coffee shop inside. I was ordering my drink when an older woman came into the cafe. She took one look at me – clad in a floral 50’s style dress, flats, and my tattoos on full display – and made a face. Not a good face, but a face. You know the face. She was in line, but refused to come near me – she stood far enough away that another woman cut her in line and she didn’t even say anything because she was so busy staring at me.

I glanced her way and gave her a smile, but she refused to change her expression. It was like a mixture of annoyance, disapproval and a certain je ne sais quoi that I couldn’t place because I am not crotchety. Most days, anyway. 🙂

Once I received my drink, I had to walk past her to get to the door. She literally backed up into the bakery case with her hands up like I was holding her hostage… or like I was a flea-ridden chipmunk with the plague*. I kind of breezed past her, unsure of why she was putting her hands up like I was a cop about to arrest her.

I get that face and reaction often. It comes from every walk of life, but usually older folks. And I can understand if I think really hard about it – tattoos can be menacing in their own confounding way. If you see someone with a tattoo – no matter what the subject matter is – it can often come across as aggressive, like we’re part of this gang that non-tattooed people don’t know about.

I suppose you could make the case that back in their day, only the friendly neighborhood criminal had tattoos, and they were usually faded badges from assorted military branches or pin-up girls. Bad boys had tattoos. I get it.

But maybe – just maybe – I can get all the tattoo naysayers to change their tune with this post. Because your sour expressions, your sighs of disapproval, your hostile body language – it hurts my feelings. Do I go home and cry about the old lady who made a face about my tats? No. I’ll forget about it tomorrow, most likely, when I have more pressing things to think about, like taxes and if I should order chicken McNuggets or a sandwich. But in that moment, seen and treated like I’m some kind of social pariah – it’s not fair. It’s not fun. And it’s completely unnecessary.

I have a lollipop tattoo on my leg. A freaking LOLLIPOP. If I’m in any kind of gang, it’s the Lollipop Guild with those triplet munchkins from The Wizard of Oz… which actually would be a pretty badass gig. Who can I contact about that?

What I’m trying to say in a really roundabout way is, don’t judge a book by its cover. I may have tattoos and wear tutus and have wacky glasses, but I’m harmless. I will say hello to anyone and everyone and talk to you about your day. I compliment nearly everyone I meet, and they come from the heart. I hope to brighten as many people’s days as I possibly can. And I do it all with my tattoos proudly displayed in public for everyone to see. The disapproving glances I receive are unwarranted – it’s not like I can return my tattoos or change the fact that I have them, so why give me a hard time? And why is my body cause for YOUR concern? But that’s a tad political and we don’t talk about that kinda stuff on a dessert blog.

And anyway, there are plenty of bad people out there who do deserve your nasty glares. Al Capone didn’t have tattoos, and it’s not like he was a stand-up dude that you’d bring home to mom and dad. But a girl in a swing dress with a donut on her leg? Probably not a criminal or someone you need to treat as if she’s a chipmunk with the bubonic plague.**

I’m so glad we’re on the same page!

So let me brief ya real quick on these cookies – they’re fat. They’re chewy. They’re soft. And they’re fully loaded with all this wonderful goodness, like chocolate chips, peanut butter, oats and miniature M&M’s candies. And I could not stop eating them, so there’s that.

Do yourself a flava and make ’em!

Monster Cookies on wire rack and fabric with mini M&Ms

Print Recipe
4.73 from 11 votes

Thick & Chewy Monster Cookies

These Thick & Chewy Monster Cookies are one of my favorites! Huge, soft and buttery, they're fully loaded with peanut butter, chocolate chips, oats and mini M&M's for a wonderful blend of great texture and flavor!
Prep Time1 hr 10 mins
Cook Time14 mins
Total Time1 hr 24 mins
Course: Cookies, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Dessert
Servings: 12 -13
Author: Hayley Parker, The Domestic Rebel

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter softened
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup miniature M&M's candies
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add in the brown sugar & sugar, creaming together until combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla, beating well. Then add in the baking soda, cornstarch and flour, mixing until combined. Mix in the oats, M&M's and chocolate chips last until just combined.
  • Cover and refrigerate dough for at LEAST 1 hour, up to overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or silicone liners, or spray lightly with cooking spray. Drop heaping 1/4 cup-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheets, about 2-3" apart. Bake for approx. 12-14 minutes, rotating pans halfway through baking time to ensure even cooking. Cookies may appear slightly undone in the center; this is normal and they'll continue to set as they cool. Cool on the racks. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Closeup of Monster Cookies on wire rackGooey, chewy, soft and bursting with salty peanut butter, rich chocolate and crunchy M&M’s, this cookie is called a Monster cookie for a reason!

Monster Cookies collageHave a super sweet day!

xo, Hayley

*real life: there is a flea-ridden chipmunk with the plague nearby my house. Apparently this is “normal.” I think it’s the government’s way of telling us that the apocalypse is coming.

**it bears mentioning twice because HOW is a chipmunk with the plague “normal”!? Like, why are we not alarmed that a small, cute, Snow-White creature has the BUBONIC PLAGUE? This is madness.

 

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Comments

  1. SaraLily says

    June 10, 2016 at 6:25 am

    4 stars
    I like me some cookies with a bit of meat on their bones 😉

    I get looks all the time, too, in my petticoats and novelty prints. I am so over it. I am also used to it and don’t usually notice anymore – I’ve learned that people are just SOOOO confused when someone doesn’t fit in. They can’t handle it and it bothers them sometimes. While most looks I get are just curiosity, I know sometimes I get snickers and points. WHATEVER! I DO WHAT I WANT!

    You do you, girl. 😉

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 10, 2016 at 6:57 am

      OMG, I know exactly what you mean! When I used to have rainbow colored hair, I was pointed at ALL the time. You’re so right about people being confused about those who don’t fit in… but I prefer not fitting in! 🙂

      Reply
  2. Vicky Shelley says

    June 10, 2016 at 9:45 am

    I am so sorry you have to put up with ignorant people like that! I am 62 and I would never think about treating anyone like that. I love the recipes you share and love the website. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 10, 2016 at 10:46 am

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Vicky! Have a wonderful day! xoxo.

      Reply
  3. Karen says

    June 10, 2016 at 1:25 pm

    People fear what they don’t understand. Sorry you had to be subjected to that xo

    Reply
  4. Amanda says

    June 10, 2016 at 2:03 pm

    I think you are a beautiful person inside and out. I check your website everyday because sweet things bring a smile to my face and I have you–the creator of such good things–to thank for that. It is a lot easier to judge someone than to understand.
    I wish I could meet you in real life. You seem like a wonderful person.
    Sending a hug your way. No need to feel down. You have many supporters behind you–many more than that lady, which is why she doesn’t know how to interact with others.

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 10, 2016 at 2:17 pm

      Thank you SO much for your kind words, Amanda – totally brought tears to my eyes! I am so glad that my site and my desserts can bring a smile to your face – that’s all I ever want! Have a wonderful weekend! xoxo!

      Reply
      • Amanda says

        June 11, 2016 at 2:16 pm

        Thank you so much for accepting my comments. I truly meant each word. I am a medically-retired military veteran and it is not always easy to come up with a smile. Somehow, you manage to do that for me, so next time you see that lady, just tell her you have some super-powers to make the lives of others just a little bit brighter every time you post and share your creativity and gifts with the rest of the world.

        Reply
        • thedomesticrebel says

          June 12, 2016 at 6:26 am

          Amanda, you are so kind and thank you so much for your service! xoxo!

          Reply
  5. ceil says

    June 10, 2016 at 7:55 pm

    5 stars
    You are a precious young lady and a gifted writer! Your cooking creativity never ends! I love reading your blog and admire how you often acknowledge and support others, such as the posting you did recently on Melissa’s Southern Cookbook. Please keep sharing your stories and talents with your readers and friends around the globe. I look forward to seeing your cookbook published soon and plan to share it as gifts with several friends for Christmas! Thank you Miss Hayley for your honest and inspirational thoughts, stories and recipes! I hope to meet you in person one day. Blessings!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 12, 2016 at 6:26 am

      Thank you so much for the sweet words, Ceil! I hope to meet you as well! xoxo!

      Reply
  6. cakeSpy says

    June 11, 2016 at 9:07 am

    I don’t care for delicate and/or wimpy cookies. Therefore, I love these babies.

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 12, 2016 at 6:26 am

      Hear, hear!

      Reply
  7. Elizabeth @ Confessions of a Baking Queen says

    June 11, 2016 at 7:19 pm

    5 stars
    I feel sad for that lady to act that way towards you. So pathetic. But damn these cookies aren’t, love how thick they are

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 12, 2016 at 6:28 am

      Ha! Thanks girlfriend! xoxo!

      Reply
  8. Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says

    June 13, 2016 at 5:39 pm

    5 stars
    I don’t know HOW anyone could be scared of you or have such a reaction! You’re a happy bright adorable lady! AND you make gigantic amazing cookies! You’re the total package of awesome!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 14, 2016 at 6:28 am

      Ha, thanks girl!

      Reply
  9. Laura says

    June 20, 2016 at 6:07 am

    These sound yummy!
    Do you think I could make them with out the peanut butter?

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      June 20, 2016 at 8:08 am

      Hi Laura! Sure! One – you could make them with a different nut butter if you’d rather – just follow the recipe as is. Or if you want to eliminate the peanut butter completely, I would increase the butter to 2 sticks (1 cup) to bring back the moisture that the peanut butter had. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  10. Tricia says

    July 11, 2016 at 10:42 am

    I can’t wait to make these cookies this weekend!
    Do they really take a whole tablespoon of vanilla extract? I don’t usually see recipes that call for that much. Admittedly, vanilla is my favorite flavor in the world, but figured I’d double check just in case.
    Thanks so much for posting this!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      July 11, 2016 at 12:43 pm

      Hi Tricia! I’m so glad you found this recipe! 🙂 I love adding extra vanilla in my cookie recipes – it really brings those flavors together! But you are welcome to use less. I would start at one teaspoon of vanilla and increase as needed if you’d like!

      Reply
    • Tricia says

      July 18, 2016 at 3:59 pm

      5 stars
      Just an update- I made these cookies last night (with full amount of vanilla!) and they were freaking awesome! They are everything you promised: huge, chewy, and so yummy! I’ll definitely be making them again soon. Next weekend I am making your sugar cookies. I had a different recipe lined up, but after one bite of these, I scrapped it and will be using your recipe instead. Consider me a new faithful follower of your blog. Thanks again!

      Reply
  11. Broughton and Arrow says

    September 21, 2016 at 1:25 pm

    lol my mom practically died when I got my first tattoo. I have 5 now. She recently asked me why I didn’t get the “ones that fade” and if I’m “over that stage yet”. Haha. On another note I’m totally excited about making these cookies! Monster cookies are my fav!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      September 21, 2016 at 1:44 pm

      LOL. Uh, there’s no such thing as temporary tattoo parlors… unless you count face-painting booths at the fair! Haha. Too funny!

      Reply
  12. Gypzysky says

    October 17, 2016 at 12:46 pm

    I totally relate! I have tattoos and fun colots in my hair, I know exactly what “look” this person gave you!
    I loved your bone picking. And I love this cookie recipe.
    You rock AND you are beautiful!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      October 17, 2016 at 2:23 pm

      Thank you so much for your kind words! xoxo!

      Reply
  13. Chantal says

    November 13, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    5 stars
    You should have smiled and given her the “PEACE” sign, it is a sad commentary on this country that this kind of behavior still goes on. EMBRACE LIFE!!! Pity those who don’t. The cookies are awesome, I added 1 Tablespoon of molasses to give them a deeper, slightly darker flavor. This is a great recipe.

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      November 13, 2016 at 3:56 pm

      Thanks for your tip, Chantal!

      Reply
  14. Judy says

    December 3, 2016 at 8:01 pm

    I had a “leaking laugh” after reading about your tats!! Growing up in MS. during the Kennedy years my mama told me not to talk to people who had “them nasty tattoos”, I thought maybe they had a really bad disease that caused them nasty tattoos!! In the past few years I’ve seen some incredibly beautiful tatoos that were like works of art. Next time someone stares tell them they should get one and tell them where you got yours.

    Reply
  15. Kristin says

    February 1, 2017 at 7:19 pm

    3 stars
    I’ve been searching for a Monster cookie recipe for my son’s birthday party and I decided to make these due to the thick and chewy nature. While I love the texture, the flavor was lacking a bit. I typically use unsalted butter as that’s usually the standard unless stated otherwise so I’m not sure if that was the issue. I also use natural peanut butter without added sugar and salt. I think I’ll add some salt to the next batch and see if that makes a difference.

    Reply
  16. Tiffany says

    April 10, 2017 at 8:44 am

    I’ve made these 4 times in the past year. I’ve also tried Sally’s Baking Addiction and the Taste of Home recipe and my family likes these the best! They seem to be much chewier! One of the four times making was for Christmas and they were voted best Christmas cookie this year-beating out scotcharoos -which have come in first the past 4 years!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      April 10, 2017 at 11:18 am

      Hi Tiffany! So happy to hear you love these! They are super chewy, aren’t they!?

      Reply
  17. Jacci says

    July 26, 2017 at 5:55 pm

    Hayley,
    You are a rock star. Here is what I know…everyone has a choice of how they want to live their life in the morning. It sounds to me you choose to live your life to its fullest, and have a great outlook and perspective on life…which probably means you get a lot of enjoyment and happiness. The lady that you encountered in the coffee shop, I feel sorry for her. Because she is so closed minded and judgemental, she is missing out on a great deal of life. Living in fear like that limits your enjoyment, I can’t imagine how miserable her life actually is. So like I said before, you are a ROCK STAR! Oh, and I can’t freaking wait to make these cookies. My only question is do you use salted or unsalted butter?
    Keep Rockin’ it Girl,
    Jacci

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      July 29, 2017 at 7:45 am

      Hi Jacci! Thanks for your sweet comment 🙂 You can use either unsalted or salted butter – if you use salted, keep in mind that the peanut butter is already kind of salty.

      Reply
  18. Lori says

    December 15, 2017 at 7:07 am

    I have made these 3 times in two weeks! Very yummy thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
  19. Brenda says

    May 2, 2018 at 9:12 pm

    5 stars
    Hi, I haven’t tried your cookies yet. Can’t wait. Look you have an awesome gift for baking so don’t worry about the negativity. Hoped to see more of your amazing recipes. Thank you. God bless you!

    Reply
  20. mar says

    August 31, 2018 at 2:59 pm

    5 stars
    Hello! Is there anything i can replace peanut butter with? these seem greaaaaat! But I’m not a big PB fan..

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      September 3, 2018 at 2:55 pm

      Hi Mar, you could substitute another nut butter, such as almond or cashew!

      Reply
  21. Michelle Alexandre says

    November 6, 2018 at 4:27 pm

    These are awesome cookies, I like to make them with crunchy peanut butter which gives a lil more crunch to them. Delicious!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      November 6, 2018 at 7:05 pm

      Michelle, love that tip!

      Reply
  22. Tammy says

    December 26, 2018 at 7:39 pm

    Does this recipe really call for only 1/2 cup of flour?

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      December 27, 2018 at 2:28 pm

      Hi Tammy, no, it calls for 1 and 1/2 cups flour.

      Reply
  23. Rose says

    October 24, 2019 at 2:59 am

    Made a double batch of these my first round. They were A-mazing!!! Took some to work. They were gone in seconds. The only woman in my shop had to have the recipe. Sent some with my son to school to share…he may or may not have actually shared them. ? Just now whipping up a TRIPLE batch to share after my sons Halloween concert. Can’t wait to see all the happy kids enjoy these awesome cookies. Thank you for the recipe!

    Reply
    • thedomesticrebel says

      October 24, 2019 at 3:33 pm

      Rose, this delights me so! Enjoy all those cookies!

      Reply
  24. SK says

    January 30, 2021 at 6:46 am

    5 stars
    These are hands down the best cookies I have made. I found this recipe on Pinterest about a year ago and I’m pretty sure my roommates request these at least twice a month. Do you have any tips on freezing the dough? We eat these so often I want to keep a little dough on hand ?

    Reply
  25. Lauren says

    June 24, 2021 at 5:51 pm

    5 stars
    My new fav chic chip cookie recipe!

    Reply
  26. Laurie says

    July 24, 2021 at 8:14 pm

    Hello sweet and beautiful girl!!! I am 65. When I saw your picture it made me smile, it made me happy, it delighted me. You are absolutely adorable, tattoos and all.

    Now off to my kitchen to bake your yummy cookies with my grand daughter!!!!!

    Reply

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About me

Welcome to The Domestic Rebel! My name is Hayley and I am the 31-year old writer, photographer, recipe developer, taste-tester and creator of this blog. I’m so glad you’ve stopped by my little slice of sprinkly, butter-laden heaven on the interwebs. If it wasn’t apparent, I like to bake… a lot. Read More…

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