Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining the classic flavors of a monster cookie with the fluffy, indulgent texture of cupcakes. When I first made Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes, I couldn’t believe how perfectly the cookie dough and cupcake came together. The creamy, rich peanut butter flavor of the cookie dough complements the moist, tender cupcake in a way that’s irresistible. My family was hooked from the very first bite! It’s one of those desserts that always brings smiles to everyone’s face, and I love making it for birthdays, celebrations, or even just a weekend treat. The best part? It’s super fun to make and even more fun to eat.

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Why You’ll Love These Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes

These Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes are a combination of everything you could want in a dessert: soft cupcakes, sweet cookie dough, and a decadent frosting, all rolled into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re a fan of cupcakes, cookie dough, or both, these cupcakes will hit all the right notes. They’re perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth and make an excellent party or special event dessert. The addition of chocolate chips, M&M’s, and oats gives them a nostalgic, comforting flavor that will remind you of homemade monster cookies. Plus, the frosting is creamy, smooth, and rich, creating a perfect balance to the fluffy cupcake base.

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Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the back of the box)

For the Monster Cookie Dough:

• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup butter, room temperature
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini M&M’s

For the Monster Cookie Dough Frosting:

• 2 sticks butter, room temperature
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 6-8 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini M&M’s

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, butter, and peanut butter until smooth and well-combined.
2. Beat in the powdered sugar, brown sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to mix until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the oats, mini chocolate chips, and mini M&M’s until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Scoop the dough into small balls (about 1-1.5 tablespoons each) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Freeze the cookie dough balls for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Prepare the yellow cake mix as directed on the package, following the instructions for adding eggs, oil, and water.
2. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and pour the prepared cake batter into each liner, filling them about 2/3 of the way.
3. Gently press a frozen cookie dough ball into the center of each cupcake.
4. Bake the cupcakes at 350°F (175°C) for 14-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (except for the cookie dough). Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the mini chocolate chips and mini M&M’s for added texture and decoration.
4. Once the cupcakes have cooled, generously frost each cupcake with the monster cookie dough frosting.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

(Note: The nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (for dough and frosting)
• Cook Time: 14-16 minutes (for cupcakes)
• Total Time: 1 hour (including freezing and cooling time)

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How to Serve

These Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion! Here are a few ways to serve and enjoy them:

• As a Birthday Treat: They make a fun and delicious birthday dessert that will be loved by both kids and adults.
• For Afternoon Tea or Coffee: These cupcakes are a great addition to your next afternoon tea or coffee gathering.
• As a Party Snack: Serve them at parties, barbecues, or picnics for a fun, sweet treat everyone can enjoy.
• With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
• For a Sweet Gift: Package them in a cute box to give as a homemade treat for friends or family.

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Additional Tips

1. Freezing the Cookie Dough: Make sure to freeze the cookie dough balls thoroughly before adding them to the cupcakes. This helps them maintain their shape while baking and prevents them from sinking too much into the batter.
2. Cake Mix Variations: You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for a more decadent flavor combination.
3. Add a Drizzle: For a more eye-catching finish, drizzle melted peanut butter or chocolate on top of the frosting before serving.
4. Customize the Cookie Dough: Feel free to swap out the mini M&M’s for other candy pieces like mini Reese’s cups or sprinkles to add a personal touch.
5. Make Mini Cupcakes: For smaller portions, try making mini cupcakes by reducing the baking time. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of frosting?
   Yes! You can use traditional buttercream frosting or any frosting you prefer. However, the monster cookie dough frosting adds a unique peanut butter and cookie flavor.
2. Can I make the cookie dough in advance?
   Yes, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to a week before baking the cupcakes.
3. What if I don’t have cream cheese for the cookie dough?
   You can substitute cream cheese with more peanut butter, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
4. Can I make the cupcakes without peanut butter?
   If you don’t like peanut butter or have an allergy, you can substitute it with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter for a similar taste and texture.
5. Can I bake these cupcakes without the cookie dough center?
   Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes without the cookie dough and just top them with the frosting for a simpler version of the treat.
6. How long will these cupcakes stay fresh?
   Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.
7. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
   Yes! You can freeze the cupcakes after baking (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Frost them once they’re thawed.
8. Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?
   It’s best to use quick oats, but if you only have regular oats, just pulse them in a blender or food processor for a finer texture.
9. How can I make these cupcakes less sweet?
   Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting or opt for a sugar-free cake mix.
10. Can I add more chocolate chips to the dough or frosting?
    Definitely! You can add more chocolate chips to either the cookie dough or frosting for an even richer chocolate flavor.

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With this delicious recipe for Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes, you’re sure to impress family and friends with a treat that’s both fun and indulgent. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a regular day when you need a sweet escape, these cupcakes are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face.

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