Gluten Free Monster Cookies

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 3/4 cup no-added sugar natural drippy peanut butter see note
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups quick cooking oats
• ½ cup hard shelled chocolate candies
• 1/2 cup chopped leftover candy bars or chocolate chips

Why We Love This…

✔ Protein- and fiber-rich: Peanut butter and oats provide plant-based protein and fiber for satiety, stable blood sugar, and digestive health.
✔ Heart-healthy fats: Coconut oil and peanut butter deliver monounsaturated fats to support cardiovascular and brain health.
✔ Energy-dense and satisfying: Natural sugars from maple syrup and chocolate provide quick energy along with a treat-like indulgence.
✔ Antioxidant boost: Chocolate and cacao-based candies supply antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
✔ Mood-enhancing indulgence: Chocolate compounds can help improve mood and provide a comforting, nutrient-rich snack.
✔ Customizable: Swap or add nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate for additional protein, fiber, and micronutrients.

Instructions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Add coconut oil, maple syrup, peanut butter, egg and vanilla extract to a bowl and whisk together until fully combined. Stir in the baking soda, oats, chocolate candies and chopped candy bars.
3. Let the batter sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
4. Scoop the dough into balls about ¼ cup in size and place on a baking sheet about 1-1/2” apart.
5. Bake in the preheated oven in the middle rack for 12-14 minutes, until the cookies have spread and the tops are set.
6. Remove from the oven, and if desired, while still hot, using a dull knife gently push any misshapen cookies into a circular shape (see note).
7. Let the cookies sit on the hot tray for at least 15 minutes, before transferring to a cooling rack to finish setting up. They are very delicate while they are hot.