The Best Gluten Free Monster Cookies: Chewy, Sweet & Easy One-Bowl Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate cookie experience with these incredible Gluten Free Monster Cookies! We’ve taken everything you adore about classic Monster Cookies – the irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter, wholesome oats, rich chocolate chips, and colorful M&M candies – and perfected it into a completely gluten-free recipe. These cookies are wonderfully sweet, delightfully thick, and perfectly chewy, making them the ideal sweet treat for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings.

Whether you’re managing a gluten intolerance or simply looking for an exceptionally delicious cookie that everyone will love, these Monster Cookies deliver on every front. They’re straightforward to make, require minimal cleanup, and don’t even need chilling! Prepare to bake a batch that will disappear in minutes.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Gluten Free Monster Cookie Recipe

This isn’t just another cookie recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and convenience. Here’s why these Gluten Free Monster Cookies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• All Your Favorite Cookie Flavors, Rolled Into One: Do you love peanut butter cookies? What about the comforting chewiness of oatmeal cookies? Or the classic indulgence of chocolate chip cookies, and the playful crunch of M&M cookies? These Gluten Free Monster Cookies unite all these beloved characteristics into one glorious, satisfying bite. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes!
• Effortless One-Bowl, No-Chill Recipe: Say goodbye to multiple dirty bowls and the dreaded waiting game of chilling dough. This recipe is designed for maximum convenience. Everything comes together in a single bowl, and there’s no need to chill the dough before baking. This means you can go from craving to warm, fresh cookies in under an hour – perfect for impromptu baking sessions or busy weeknights.
• Naturally Gluten-Free Ingredients: With a base of peanut butter and gluten-free oats, this recipe avoids common gluten-containing flours, making it a fantastic option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity without compromising on flavor or texture.
• Thick, Chewy & Perfectly Sweet: These cookies are far from flat or crumbly. They bake up beautifully thick and boast that perfect chewy texture that makes a cookie truly irresistible. The sweetness is balanced, highlighting the peanut butter and chocolate without being overly sugary.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From after-school snacks and lunchbox treats to party desserts and holiday platters, these colorful and delicious cookies are a crowd-pleaser for any event. Their vibrant appearance and comforting flavors make them a hit with both kids and adults.

Essential Chef’s Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Monster Cookies

Achieving the perfect Monster Cookie is easy with a few insider tips. Pay attention to these details for the best possible results:

• Choose the Right Peanut Butter: This is crucial for the texture and consistency of your cookies. Do not use natural peanut butter that separates in the jar (save that for your toast!). The oil separation in natural peanut butter can lead to drier, crumbly cookies that don’t hold together well. Instead, opt for a smooth, processed peanut butter brand like JIF or Skippy. These brands contain stabilizers that help bind the cookies and give them their characteristic chewy texture.
• Get Creative with Your Candy Add-ins: While classic Monster Cookies feature M&M candies, this recipe is wonderfully versatile! If you have any leftover Halloween candy (or any other gluten-free candy stashed away), feel free to chop it up and use it as an alternative or additional add-in. Just remember to always double-check that any candy you’re using is certified gluten-free to keep the cookies safe for those with dietary restrictions. Think beyond M&M’s – chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups (check labels!), other chocolate candies, or even sprinkles can add a fun twist.
• Don’t Overbake: Monster Cookies are best when they are slightly underbaked in the center, which contributes to their wonderfully chewy texture. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the oven when the edges are set and lightly golden, but the centers still look a bit soft. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Cooling is Key: Resist the urge to move them too soon! Allow the cookies to cool for at least 8-10 minutes on the hot baking sheet after they come out of the oven. This allows them to firm up properly and prevents them from breaking apart when transferred to a cooling rack.
• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature. This means it should be soft enough to easily indent with your finger but not melted or greasy. Room temperature butter creams better with sugar, creating a light and airy base for your cookie dough.

Understanding the Ingredients for Gluten Free Monster Cookies

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating these magnificent cookies. Here’s a closer look:

• Smooth Peanut Butter: As mentioned in the tips, use a conventional, non-separating peanut butter for the best structure and chewiness. It forms the primary base and flavor.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps with the overall texture and spread of the cookie. Ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: A combination of both sugars gives these cookies their perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor, while granulated sugar contributes to crisp edges.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent, helping to hold all the ingredients together and providing structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic note.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate.
• Gluten-Free Old Fashioned Oats: These are essential for the classic Monster Cookie texture. Ensure they are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier chew than quick oats.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and spread, contributing to their soft interior.
• Milk Chocolate Chips: A must-have for gooey pockets of chocolate goodness. You can also use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips if preferred.
• Mini M&M’s: Add a delightful crunch, extra sweetness, and vibrant color.
• Flake Salt (Optional): A sprinkle of flake salt on top after baking can enhance the sweetness and add a gourmet touch, creating a lovely sweet and salty contrast.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

These Gluten Free Monster Cookies are so good, they might not last long! But if you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store them to maintain their freshness:

• At Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Placing a slice of bread in the container can sometimes help keep them softer.
• In the Refrigerator: While not strictly necessary, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Allow cookies to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Freezing Cookie Dough: Form the cookie dough into balls as instructed, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once solid, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for a few extra minutes (approximately 2-4 minutes longer than the recipe states), or let them thaw slightly before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are oats always gluten-free?

No, not always. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they are often processed in facilities that also handle wheat, barley, and rye, leading to cross-contamination. For a truly gluten-free recipe, it’s essential to use certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While you technically *can* use quick oats, they will result in a slightly different texture. Quick oats are more finely processed and will absorb liquids faster, leading to a less chewy and more uniform cookie. For the best “monster cookie” texture, old-fashioned oats are highly recommended.

My cookies are spreading too much. What went wrong?

Several factors can cause cookies to spread too much: butter that is too soft or melted, an incorrect amount of flour (though this recipe uses oats, so check oat measurement), or an oven that isn’t at the correct temperature. Ensure your butter is room temperature (not melted), measure ingredients precisely, and consider using an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.

Can I add nuts to these Monster Cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped gluten-free peanuts, pecans, or walnuts would be a delicious addition. Just ensure any added nuts are free from cross-contamination if gluten-free is a strict requirement.

How can I make these cookies even more festive?

For different occasions, you can swap out the M&M colors! Use red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or specific team colors for game day. White chocolate chips or sprinkles can also add a festive touch.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, you can easily halve the recipe if you only need a smaller batch. Be sure to halve all ingredients accurately.

More Delicious Gluten-Free Baking Recipes You’ll Love

• Gluten Free Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies: Another chewy oat-based delight!
• Best Gluten Free Lemon Cake Recipe: A zesty and moist cake perfect for dessert.
• Keto English Muffin with Almond Flour: A low-carb option for breakfast or snacks.
• Instant Pot Buttermilk Cornbread: A savory, comforting gluten-free side.
• Easy Vegan Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping: A delightful plant-based sweet treat.
• Healthy Lemon Muffins with Fresh Lemon Juice: Light and refreshing gluten-free muffins.

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Gluten Free Monster Cookies

Prep: 20 minutes minutes

Cook: 14 minutes minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total: 44 minutes minutes

These easy, Gluten Free Monster Cookies are a delightful blend of peanut butter, oats, chocolate, and M&M’s. They’re thick, chewy, and best of all, a one-bowl, no-chill recipe perfect for quick baking!

Cheryl Malik

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Ingredients

• ▢ 2 cups smooth peanut butter like JIF, not natural – see notes in Chef’s Tips
• ▢ 6 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
• ▢ 1 ½ cups light brown sugar packed
• ▢ 3 large eggs
• ▢ 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ▢ 3 cups certified gluten free old fashioned oats
• ▢ 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ▢ 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• ▢ 1 cup mini M&M’s ensure they are gluten-free
• ▢ flake salt for topping optional, but highly recommended

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Instructions 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• In a very large mixing bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, room temperature butter, and brown sugar. Use a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer to stir until the mixture is completely smooth and well-creamed. This creates the foundational texture of your cookies.
• Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is combined and the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add the certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats and baking soda. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the oats are evenly distributed and very well mixed into the wet ingredients. Finally, gently fold in the milk chocolate chips and mini M&M’s until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
• Using a ¼ cup measuring cup or a large cookie scoop, portion out balls of dough. Roll each portion between your palms to create smooth, uniform spheres. Place about 8 cookie dough balls onto each prepared sheet tray, ensuring they have enough room to spread without touching.
• Bake for 8 minutes. At this point, the cookies will still look soft. Remove the trays from the oven and gently press down on each cookie slightly with the back of a fork to help them spread and flatten evenly. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and set, but the centers still appear a bit soft. If desired, immediately sprinkle with flake salt after removing from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 8-10 minutes to allow them to set completely before transferring them to a wire rack to cool further.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 469kcal | Protein: 8g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Total Carbs: 35g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 30g | Net Carbs: 33g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 363mg | Potassium: 255mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 1mg

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

 

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

 

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik

These Gluten Free Monster Cookies are truly a magical treat, combining rich flavors and satisfying textures in an easy-to-make package. Whether you’re baking for a special dietary need or simply seeking an extraordinarily delicious cookie, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Enjoy the process of creating these colorful, chewy delights, and savor every bite!