Festive Monster Christmas Cookies are a whimsical and fun dessert that adds a delightful twist to holiday baking.
These colorful, eye-catching cookies are characterized by their monster-like decorations, featuring an array of vibrant frosting, candies, and edible googly eyes that bring a playful spirit to any festive gathering.
Perfect for families, these cookies aren’t only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun project for kids to engage in during Christmas celebrations.
Bake them to spread cheer and sweetness among friends and loved ones!
These ingredients will create the base of the Festive Monster Christmas Cookies, along with decorative elements to bring the monster faces to life. Enjoy your festive baking!
Cooking Steps
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Position the oven rack in the middle to guarantee even baking.
Line two baking sheets (approximately 40 cm x 30 cm or 16 in x 12 in) with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly combined.
In a separate bowl, cream ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Include 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the cookies soft.
Gently fold in 1 cup of colorful M&M’s (or mini chocolate candies) and ½ cup of edible googly eyes using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded portions of dough (about 3 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 7.5 cm (3 inches) apart.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, decorate the cookies using 3 cups of royal icing or buttercream frosting in various colors to create monster faces.
Add sprinkles (optional) for additional decoration, making sure they stick to the frosting before it sets.
Let the decorated cookies sit for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to harden slightly before serving or storing.
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for ideal freshness.
Variations
Peanut Butter Monsters: Substitute ½ cup (125 g) of the all-purpose flour with ½ cup (125 g) of creamy peanut butter for a rich flavor twist.
Vegan Friendly Cookies: Replace the eggs with ½ cup (120 ml) of unsweetened applesauce and use a dairy-free butter alternative along with a dairy-free chocolate option.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (2 ½ cups or 315 g) to maintain texture without gluten, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Chocolaty Swirl: Incorporate 1 cup (175 g) of chocolate chips into the dough in place of M&M’s for a deeper chocolate flavor experience.
Tips on plating and presentation
Whether you’re serving up classic versions or trying out delightful variations like peanut butter or vegan options, the presentation of your Festive Monster Christmas Cookies can really elevate the holiday spirit.
To make these cookies stand out, I recommend using a colorful platter or a festive holiday-themed dish that complements their playful design. Arrange them in a slightly overlapping pattern or stack them for height. You can sprinkle edible glitter or powdered sugar for that extra touch.
Adding small decorations like candy canes or holly leaves around the cookies creates a charming scene. Finally, don’t forget to include a little card with their names or ingredients; it adds a personal touch and sparks conversation.
Happy plating!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Looking for the perfect dishes to complement your Festive Monster Christmas Cookies?
I’ve found that pairing them with a rich chocolate fudge or a warm fruit tart creates a delightful contrast. The sweetness of the cookies plays beautifully against the tartness of the fruit, while the rich chocolate adds a luxurious touch.
Another great pairing is a batch of chewy caramel popcorn; the salty-sweet combo elevates the festive spirit.
For something lighter, a fluffy vanilla mousse complements the cookies without overwhelming your palate.
I also love serving these cookies alongside a seasonal cheese platter featuring sharp cheeses and spiced nuts.
These dishes not only enhance the cookie experience but also add a fun twist to your holiday gatherings!
What drinks can I pair it with?
To truly enhance the joy of savoring Festive Monster Christmas Cookies, I love pairing them with a cup of spiced hot chocolate. The rich chocolate flavor combined with warm spices creates a cozy backdrop for the sweet, chewy cookies.
I also enjoy a classic glass of milk, as the cold creaminess balances perfectly with the cookies’ festive flavors. For a more grown-up twist, experimenting with peppermint mocha lattes adds a delightful kick, amplifying the holiday spirit.
If you’re in the mood for something non-sweet, I’ve found that a warm chai tea offers a fragrant contrast, making each bite of the cookie more interesting.
Whatever your choice, these drinks will make your cookie experience even more festive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely, I often make the dough ahead of time! It’s convenient and lets the flavors develop. Just chill it in the fridge, and I’ve found it keeps well for up to three days.
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I usually find they taste best within the first few days, but they’ll still be good for up to a week!
Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Absolutely, I can adapt the recipe to be gluten-free! I typically use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. It’s important to guarantee all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually stay fresh for about a week. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them in individual bags.
Can Kids Help With Making These Cookies?
Absolutely, kids can help! I love involving them in the kitchen. They can mix the ingredients, shape the cookies, and decorate with sprinkles. It’s a fun way to create memories together while baking!
