Name: Gluten Free Monster Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: Gluten-Free Rolled Oats (2 cups); Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup; Honey (1/2 cup; Dark Brown Sugar (1/2 cup,; Large Eggs (2):; Baking Soda (1 teaspoon):; Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons); Salt (1/2 teaspoon):; Shredded Coconut (1/2 cup, optional)

Welcome, my fellow food enthusiasts, to a delectable journey through the realm of Gluten-Free Monster Cookies – a delightful creation that’s bound to leave you craving for more! As a professional food writer and a health-conscious chef, I take immense pleasure in crafting recipes that not only excite the taste buds but also promote well-being. Today, I am thrilled to share with you the secrets of these wholesome and irresistibly chewy cookies that are free from gluten, but certainly not from flavor.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced amalgamation of oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and a touch of magic. These cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they are an embodiment of the joy of baking and sharing moments with loved ones. Whether you have gluten sensitivities or simply love indulging in wholesome goodness, this recipe will cater to all your cravings and provide a healthy twist to a classic favorite.

So, put on your aprons and join me as we embark on this culinary adventure, learning how to create the most delightful and enchanting Gluten-Free Monster Cookies that will leave your taste buds dancing and your heart content. Let’s dive right in!

Gluten-Free Vegan Corn Bread

Recipe Ingredients:

To make these scrumptious Gluten-Free Monster Cookies, you’ll need the following wholesome ingredients:

Gluten-Free Rolled Oats (2 cups): Rolled oats serve as the heart of this recipe, imparting a chewy texture and a nutty undertone that harmonizes beautifully with the other components. They’re an excellent source of fiber, keeping you feeling satisfied and energized.
Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): Peanut butter adds creaminess and a delightful nutty flavor, elevating these cookies to a whole new level of yumminess. Opt for an all-natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier choice.
Honey (1/2 cup): This natural sweetener not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the chewy texture of the cookies. It complements the other ingredients perfectly, striking a balance between sweetness and nutty goodness.
Dark Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed): The molasses-rich dark brown sugar brings a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies, making them more indulgent without overpowering the other flavors.
Large Eggs (2): Eggs act as the binding agent, ensuring the cookies hold their shape and come out perfectly tender and moist. For those with egg sensitivities, you can try using flax eggs as a substitute.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Baking soda lends a subtle lift to the cookies, resulting in a soft and slightly cakey texture that harmonizes wonderfully with the hearty oats and gooey chocolate chips.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Pure vanilla extract infuses the cookies with its warm and comforting aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile and making them utterly irresistible.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of salt brings out the natural sweetness of the cookies and balances the flavors, ensuring they’re not overly sugary.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): These little bursts of chocolaty goodness are the stars of our Monster Cookies, adding pockets of gooey decadence in every bite. Choose dairy-free and vegan chocolate chips if you want to keep the recipe entirely plant-based.
Shredded Coconut (1/2 cup, optional): For an extra layer of texture and flavor, shredded coconut can be added. It imparts a subtle tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

Gluten-Free Whole Wheat Bread

Ingredients Notes:

When crafting these Gluten-Free Monster Cookies, ingredient selection plays a pivotal role in the final outcome. After numerous trials and delightful errors in my kitchen, I’ve come to realize the importance of using high-quality, wholesome ingredients. Opt for certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the cookies are entirely gluten-free and safe for those with sensitivities.

As for peanut butter, I found that using a creamy, all-natural variety without additives produces the best results. The natural oils in such peanut butter create a lush, velvety texture in the cookies, while avoiding added sugars keeps the sweetness level just right.

Pamelas Gluten-Free Bread Mix

How to Make Gluten-Free Monster Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is ready to bake the cookies once the dough is prepared.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk or fork to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of baking soda and salt.

Step 4: Cream Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, honey, and dark brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to cream the wet ingredients together until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

To the creamed wet ingredients, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the wet ingredients are fully blended.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well incorporated. The resulting dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips (and Optional Coconut)

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you opted for shredded coconut, add it at this stage as well, gently mixing it in with the other ingredients.

Step 8: Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking. If you prefer larger cookies, you can make them bigger, but remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Step 9: Flatten the Cookies (Optional)

For a slightly flatter shape, lightly press down on each cookie with the back of a fork or the palm of your hand. This step is optional but can give the cookies a more uniform appearance.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers may still seem slightly soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Avoid overbaking to maintain their chewy texture.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy!

Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Now, indulge in these wholesome Gluten-Free Monster Cookies, savoring each bite of their delightful blend of flavors.

Little Northern Bakehouse Gluten-Free Bread

Storage and Freezing Instructions:

Storage Instructions:

To keep your Gluten-Free Monster Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage guidelines:

Once the cookies have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container. A cookie jar with a tight-sealing lid works perfectly for this purpose.
Keep the container at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
When properly stored, these cookies can stay fresh for up to 5-7 days.

Freezing Instructions:

If you want to save some cookies for later or make a larger batch for future enjoyment, freezing is an excellent option. Follow these steps to freeze your Gluten-Free Monster Cookies:

Allow the cookies to cool completely after baking.
Line a baking sheet or a flat tray with parchment paper, and arrange the cookies in a single layer on the tray, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze the cookies for about 1 to 2 hours or until they are firm and solid.
Once the cookies are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the freezing date to keep track of their freshness.
The cookies can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months.

Tips to Make This Recipe:

Dos:

Measure Ingredients Accurately: For the best results, use precise measurements of the ingredients, especially for the gluten-free rolled oats and peanut butter.
Room Temperature Eggs: Allow the eggs to come to room temperature before adding them to the wet ingredients. Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the dough and yield a more even texture.
Mix Dough Gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
Use Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Don’ts:

Overbake the Cookies: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they are baking and remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown. Overbaking can result in dry and crumbly cookies.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie on the baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
Skip the Resting Time: After mixing the dough, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and shaping the cookies. Resting allows the oats to hydrate, giving the cookies a better texture.
Rush the Cooling Process: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them set properly before moving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter in these Gluten-Free Monster Cookies?
Answer: Absolutely! Almond butter makes a great alternative for those with peanut allergies or seeking a different flavor profile. Choose a creamy, natural almond butter for the best results.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats in this recipe?
Answer: While quick oats can be used, the texture may differ slightly. Rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture, but you can use quick oats if that’s what you have on hand.
Are these cookies suitable for vegans?
Answer: Yes, they can be made vegan by using plant-based substitutes for honey (such as agave nectar) and eggs (flax eggs or applesauce). Also, ensure you use vegan chocolate chips.
How long can I store the baked cookies, and should I refrigerate them?
Answer: You can store the baked cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for 5-7 days. No need to refrigerate, as it may affect the texture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough instead of baking it all at once?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 2-3 months. Shape the dough into cookie-sized balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the recipe?
Answer: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cookies by adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruits (such as cranberries or raisins) to the dough. Just ensure they are gluten-free if you want to keep the entire recipe gluten-free.

Gluten Free Monster Cookies

Recipe by Arthur Wilson

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time