These incredibly healthy monster cookies are an OMG-level take on the childhood classic that we’re all missing in adulthood. Golden edges. Fluffy insides. Ooey gooey chocolate puddles. Peanut butter nuttiness in every bite. In case you didn’t know, the inventor named them “Monster Cookies” because they’re a Frankensteined version of all the BEST kinds of cookies (ie. chocolate chip, peanut butter, m&m, and oatmeal). It honestly makes sense why they’re such a crowd-pleaser. You guys, I love this recipe SO much that I made them into Monster Protein Cookie Dough Bites for *everyday* snacking AND Make-Ahead Monster Breakfast Bars because I’m an adult now and make the rules on dessert for breakfast.
Anyway, I wanted this nostalgic cookie recipe to feel like the REAL DEAL and immediately take you back to your favorite swing on the playground, except without all the processed butter and sugar. So, I’m super excited to bring you healthy monster cookies that are gluten-free and actually friendly for your blood sugar. Adult-you is intrigued? I thought you might be.
What You’ll Need to Make These Healthy Monster Cookies
These cookies are made with a mix of almond flour and rolled oats for the perfect texture and are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar. Of course, I still add the chocolate chips and candy pieces on top… I’m not a monster (wink wink). But I do swap M&M’s for healthy coated candies that are free of corn syrups, dyes, and artificial flavors.
Here’s what you need to make them:
- An egg: I opt for ones that are pasture-raised and ethically-produced.
- Vanilla extract: It amps up the flavor.
- Peanut butter: Use an unsalted, all natural creamy peanut butter that drips when you pull a spoon out of the jar.
- Almond flour: This gluten-free flour is perfect for adding healthy fats and fluffy texture to baked goods.
- Coconut sugar: To sweeten this cookie with a low-glycemic sugar that’s rich in minerals and antioxidants.
- Baking soda: For optimum baking.
- Rolled oats: Be sure to use the gluten-free kind that are rolled and not steel-cut.
- Dark chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate for richness and additional nutrients.
- Coated candies: It makes these cookies look so fun.
- Flaky sea salt: For those perfectly sweet and salty vibes.
How Are These Monster Cookies So Healthy?
They’re flourless: by using almond flour and gluten-free rolled oats, we boost the gut health with flours derived from simple, natural ingredients.
They have a boost of antioxidants: dark chocolate is shown in studies to boost brain function, reduce the risk of disease, and lower inflammation.
They use heart-healthy fats: peanuts are great for you, even though almond butter is usually the star of the wellness world. It’s high in CO-Q10, all 20 amino acids, and is thought to prolong longevity!
They are blood-sugar friendly: coconut sugar is a great, healthy substitute for brown sugar and regular sugar because it’s got a low glycemic index that will help everyone avoid a sugar crash.
Make These Easy Monster Cookies in One Bowl
A recipe that only causes one dirty dish makes it SO much more fun to make. Just line your pan with parchment paper, and you’ll be set up for success! Plus, this recipe only takes about 20 minutes total and you probably have most of these ingredients already in your pantry. So, you can make them on a whim when you want to immediately satisfy your inner-child.
More Nostalgic Recipes You’ll Love
Healthy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoats
Cookies and Cream Cookie Dough Bites
How to Make a Healthy Grilled Cheese
I hope you love these amazing Healthy Monster Cookies! Enjoy, and tag me if you make it on Instagram (@lizmoody)—I can’t wait to see!
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The Best Healthy Monster Cookies You’ll Ever Eat
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup coated candies
- Maldon or flaky sea salt to garnish
Instructions
- Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the egg, vanilla extract, peanut butter, almond flour, salt, sugar, and baking soda until smooth.
- Add the oats and chocolate chips into the mixture and stir to combine.
- Once mixed, use a spoon to roll into tablespoon-sized balls and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then, press a few candies onto each ball of dough and sprinkle them with the flaky sea salt.
- Bake them for 12-15 minutes until the edges are brown. Let them cool on the pan, and then enjoy!
