Dessert

No-Bake Monster Cookies Recipe

ByVictor Layne October 13, 2025October 13, 2025

Introduction

No-Bake Monster Cookies are a quick and easy treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. Packed with peanut butter, oats, chocolate, and colorful M&M’s, these bars combine chewy and crunchy textures for a delightful snack or dessert.

A stack of three thick bars is shown on a white plate against a white marbled texture. Each bar has two layers: the bottom layer is a light golden, crumbly oat base mixed with colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces in red, blue, green, and orange; the top layer is a smooth, rich dark chocolate coating with a glossy finish. The chocolate layer is sprinkled with extra candy pieces and some chocolate-covered coffee beans. The edges of the bars are slightly uneven, giving a homemade feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 tablespoons butter, softened
6 tablespoons sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
6 tablespoons quick cooking oats, pulsed in food processor
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1½ cups quick cooking oats, not pulsed
10 tablespoons miniature M&M’s, divided into 8 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
3 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare an 8-inch baking dish by lining it with foil or parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix well to combine.
Step 3: Add the 6 tablespoons of quick cooking oats that have been pulsed in a food processor, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly fold in the 1½ cups of whole quick cooking oats and 8 tablespoons of the miniature M&M’s.
Step 4: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream together, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed cookie mixture, then sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of M&M’s on top.
Step 6: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set. Once firm, cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, try substituting crunchy peanut butter or adding chopped nuts to the mixture.
Use your favorite mix-ins instead of M&M’s, like raisins, dried cranberries, or butterscotch chips.
Pulse the oats just enough to break them down slightly but not to powder for better texture.

Storage

Store these no-bake monster cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To enjoy, allow them to come to room temperature slightly or warm briefly in the microwave before serving.

How to Serve

A stack of three square snack bars sits on a white plate against a white marbled surface. Each bar has two clear layers: the bottom and middle layers show a thick, textured, light brown oat mixture with small colorful candy pieces and chocolate bits mixed inside, while the top layer is a smooth dark chocolate sheet with a shiny finish, topped with more vibrant candy pieces in red, green, blue, and orange colors scattered across. The bars are stacked unevenly, showing the rough edges and crumbly texture of the oat layers beneath the glossy chocolate tops. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but the texture may be less smooth and the cookies might be slightly denser. Stir it well before measuring to ensure even consistency.