Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container for up to a week.
Quick Answer
These Easy Gluten-Free Monster Cookies are deliciously vegan, flourless, and perfect for the holiday season!
As the festive season approaches, there's a unique magic that swirls through the air in New York City. The crisp autumn leaves dance along the streets, while the aroma of seasonal spices wafts from bakeries that line the bustling avenues. It's tempting to indulge in traditional holiday treats, but this year, I wanted to experiment with something different. Enter these Easy Gluten-Free Monster Cookies - a delightful, vegan, and flourless creation that promises to bring joy to every holiday gathering. Let's dive into the fun and simplicity of making these festive cookies!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Vegan and flourless, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy holiday baking.
- Deliciously chewy with rich chocolate bursts in every bite.
- Endlessly customizable with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
- Perfect for freezing, making it convenient to enjoy anytime!
Ingredients
To create these delightful monster cookies, gather the following ingredients:
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter (or almond butter, if you prefer)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup rolled oats (ensure they are certified gluten-free)
- ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- ¼ cup M&M's (optional for color and sweetness)
How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Monster Cookies (Step-by-Step)
Making these monster cookies is a fun and straightforward process that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The warm air and comforting scents of the oven inspire excitement for the baking ahead!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a creamy and glossy mixture. This forms the comforting base of your cookies.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt, continuing to whisk until everything is well combined. As you add the oats, you'll notice the delightful texture forming that makes these cookies so hearty.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips & M&M's
Using a spatula, gently fold in the rolled oats, dairy-free chocolate chips, and M&M's if using. These additions will give your cookies delightful bursts of flavor and pops of color!
Step 5: Scoop & Bake
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring to leave some space between each cookie. As your cookies go into the oven, the anticipation for that perfect crispy outside and chewy inside heightens!
Step 6: Check for Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. When you take them out of the oven, the nutty aroma will be irresistible. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the Wrong Peanut Butter: Make sure your peanut butter is creamy and natural; the consistency is key for the right cookie texture.
- Overbaking: These cookies should be slightly undercooked when you take them out. They will continue to set up on the baking sheet.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cookies to sit before transferring them is vital, as they will firm up without crumbling.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with different add-ins like walnuts or dried cranberries for a seasonal touch.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week (though we're betting they won't last that long!).
- These cookies also freeze beautifully; freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
Variations
- Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different flavor.
- Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different sweetener.
- Add in chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
How to Serve
- Enjoy warm with a glass of almond milk or your favorite dairy-free beverage.
- Pair with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Serve as a festive treat on a holiday dessert platter.
- Enjoy as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for a few seconds for a soft texture.
- Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing these Easy Gluten-Free Monster Cookies, I was amazed at how easy and quick they are to whip up. The combination of chewy oats and rich chocolate is a delightful reminder that you can enjoy indulgent treats while still being mindful of dietary preferences. These cookies are not just a festive delight but a testament to creativity in the kitchen!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 cookies · Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 4g protein · 15g carbs · 8g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Easy Gluten-Free Monster Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whisk these ingredients together until creamy.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt, whisking until everything is well combined before adding the oats.
- Using a spatula, gently fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and M&M's if using.
- Drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges but soft in the center. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
FAQs
Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Yes, you can use almond butter or any other nut butter of your choice. Just ensure it has a creamy consistency for the best results.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These cookies are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a great treat for kids. However, if you're using M&M's, check for any allergens as they may vary by brand.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.
