Description
Craving a fun, sweet treat that’s quick to make and packed with flavor? No-Bake Monster Cookie Balls are the perfect solution! These bite-sized delights combine creamy peanut butter, chewy oats, sweet honey, and colorful mini chocolate chips and M&Ms for a kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing snack. No oven required—just mix, roll, and chill for a wholesome, energy-packed treat
Ingredients
No-Bake Monster Cookie Balls use simple ingredients to create a chewy, flavorful snack. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Old-Fashioned Oats (2 cups): Provide a hearty, fiber-rich base with a chewy texture, perfect for binding the balls.
- Creamy Peanut Butter or Almond Butter (1 cup): Acts as a creamy binder, adding nutty flavor and healthy fats.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (½ cup): Naturally sweetens and helps the mixture stick together, adding a subtle caramel-like flavor.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Deliver small bursts of chocolatey richness without overwhelming the mix.
- Rainbow Mini M&Ms (½ cup): Add crunchy texture, vibrant color, and sweet candy coating for the “monster” look.
- Salt (a pinch): Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
Substitutions and Variations
- Oats: Use quick oats for a softer texture or certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option. Avoid steel-cut oats, as they’re too tough.
- Peanut/Almond Butter: Swap for sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, or cashew butter for a milder flavor.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Use agave nectar, date syrup, or a sugar-free syrup for a lower-calorie option. Brown rice syrup works for a stickier bind.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Replace with regular chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or sugar-free chocolate chips for a healthier twist.
- Mini M&Ms: Swap for chopped dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries), mini Reese’s Pieces, or crushed pretzels for different textures and flavors.
- Add-Ins: Mix in ¼ cup shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or chia seeds for extra nutrition and crunch.
Pro Tip: Use creamy nut butter for easier mixing; if using natural nut butter, stir well to incorporate oils before measuring.
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups old-fashioned oats, ½ cup mini chocolate chips, and ½ cup rainbow mini M&Ms. Stir to mix evenly.
- Tip: Ensure M&Ms and chips are distributed for consistent flavor in each ball.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter), ½ cup honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt to the bowl.
- Mix with a spatula or your hands until well combined and sticky, ensuring all oats are coated.
- Tip: If the mixture is too dry, add 1 tablespoon more honey or peanut butter; if too wet, add 1-2 tablespoons oats.
- Chill Mixture:
- Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up, making it easier to roll.
- Tip: Don’t skip chilling; it prevents sticky hands and helps balls hold their shape.
- Roll into Balls:
- Pinch off a small amount of the mixture (about 1-1½ tablespoons) and roll it into a ball with your hands.
- Place each ball on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper. Repeat to make about 20-24 balls, depending on size.
- Tip: Wet your hands slightly or dust with oat flour to prevent sticking while rolling.
- Chill Again:
- Place the tray of rolled balls in the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes to set and firm up.
- Tip: Chilling ensures the balls hold together and enhances their chewy texture.
- Serve or Store:
- Enjoy the balls immediately, or transfer to an airtight container for storage.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled (makes 20-24 balls).
- Tip: Keep refrigerated if serving later to maintain firmness, especially in warm climates.
Cooking Tips:
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are evenly combined for consistent texture in every bite.
- Adjust Consistency: Test-roll a ball before chilling; if it crumbles, add more wet ingredients; if too sticky, add oats.
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion for evenly sized balls.