Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes

Treat yourself and your guests to these unique and irresistible Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes! Each cupcake hides a heart of monster cookie dough, creating a delightful surprise beneath a creamy, rich frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion where fun and flavor are on the menu.

Ingredients:

For the cupcakes:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus additional ingredients required by the mix, usually water, oil, and eggs)

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 (adjust based on desired sweetness and thickness)
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini M&M’s

Directions:

Prepare Cookie Dough:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, butter, and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Beat in both powdered and brown sugars, then mix in the flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Stir in the quick oats, mini chocolate chips, and mini M&M’s until evenly distributed.
4. Scoop and shape the mixture into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Bake Cupcakes:

1. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions and fill the cupcake liners about halfway.
2. Press a frozen cookie dough ball into the center of each filled cup, then cover with a bit more batter.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 14-16 minutes, or until the cupcakes are set and lightly golden.
4. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Make Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, adjusting the amount to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Stir in the mini chocolate chips last to avoid breaking them up.

Decorate:

1. Pipe or spread the frosting generously onto each cooled cupcake.
2. Sprinkle with mini M&M’s for added color and texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 16 minutes

Total Time: About 2 hours (includes freezing the dough)

Tips:

• Ensure the cookie dough balls are frozen solid before baking to maintain their dough-like texture.
• For a less sweet frosting, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar.
• The cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Indulge in these playful and tasty Monster Cookie Dough Cupcakes at your next gathering or simply as a special treat to brighten up any day. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!