Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Monster Cookies: The Ultimate Baking Guide Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling time (optional)
  • Yield: 24-36 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Apple Monster Cookies are a delightful combination of soft, chewy texture with the natural sweetness of apples, oats, and raisins, enhanced by warming spices and topped with fun candy eyes. Perfect for a festive treat or any time you want a monster-sized cookie packed with flavor and texture.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup shredded, peeled apple (about 1 large apple, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Topping

  • 1 cup candy eyes


Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter with the packed light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the bowl sides to ensure even mixing.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for proper incorporation. Then stir in the vanilla extract to add aroma and flavor.
  4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid overworking the dough and developing gluten.
  5. Stir in Oats, Apple, Raisins, and Nuts (if using): Fold in the rolled oats, shredded peeled apple, raisins, and chopped walnuts or pecans (if desired), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. Chill Dough (Optional): Cover the dough bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours to firm up the dough for easier handling and better texture.
  7. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
  8. Drop Dough onto Baking Sheets: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the baking sheets, keeping about 2 inches of space between each to allow spreading.
  9. Add Candy Eyes: Gently press 2 to 3 candy eyes onto the top of each cookie ball before baking to create a fun and monster-like appearance.
  10. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers look set but still soft.
  11. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is optional but recommended for better shape and texture.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of flavors that complements the sweetness.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To enhance the monster effect, consider using different colored candy eyes or adding edible decorations.