During the festive holiday season, my passion for baking cookies takes center stage. I always make extras to donate to my local library cookie sale each December. A couple of years ago, I put a holiday twist on the classic monster cookie using red and green baking bits. By infusing the dough with vibrant red and green baking bits, these holiday-themed treats have become a seasonal sensation in my family, spreading joy with every delicious bite. My husband and children gobble up the cookies as quickly as I can take each tray out of the oven.

As the familiar scent of warm cookies wafts through my kitchen, I find immense satisfaction in not only indulging my own sweet tooth but also in sharing the spirit of the season with my community. The simple act of baking and contributing to the local library cookie sale has become a heartwarming tradition that brings people together, creating a sense of warmth and camaraderie during this special time of year. The festive twist on the classic monster cookie not only delights taste buds but also adds a dash of holiday cheer, making these treats a delightful addition to the cherished December festivities. I have used both full-sized and mini M&M’s in these cookies.

Originally published on December 9, 2019. Updated on December 7, 2023.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of softened butter
• 1 1/2 cups of white sugar (283 grams)
• 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar (359 grams)
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 teaspoons of baking soda
• 5 cups of all-purpose flour (625 grams)
• 2 cups of oats (200 grams)
• 20 ounces of Christmas M&M’s

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375° F.
2. Cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add the vanilla and eggs to the butter mixture.
4. Beat until creamy.
5. Combine the salt, baking soda, all-purpose flour, and oats in a separate bowl.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until thoroughly combined.
7. Fold in the M&M’s.
8. Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
10. Allow to cool slightly before removing the cookies from the baking sheet.
11. Cool thoroughly.
12. Store in an airtight container.

Image Credits

Christmas Monster Cookies Recipe © 2019 Heather Johnson
Mixing the Dough for Christmas Monster Cookies © 2019 Heather Johnson
Christmas Monster Cookies Dough © 2019 Heather Johnson
Scooping the Christmas Monster Cookies © 2019 Heather Johnson
Unbaked Christmas Monster Cookies © 2019 Heather Johnson
Christmas Monster Cookies © 2019 Heather Johnson