Monster Cookies with the Cookie Monster

So, it's the first day of school I mean youth group for me.  New youth group, new students, new ministries, new challenges. . . nervous? Me?  Yep!  Every year I get excited and nervous for what God is going to do and what is going to happen relationships built, lives changed, prayers answered, walks challenged. . .it's going to be great I know it is but it's tough to be here instead of Lake City where we spent the last 5 years and already knew the kids and ministries.  I'm looking forward to this year though.  Some of the students we've started to get to know are awesome, funny, talented and selfless. 

I'm making Monster Cookies with Lydia (my Cookie Monster) to take to youth group tonight.  No better way to win a teenager than by great snacks! 

Monster Cookies (by Paula Deen)
Takes about 10 minutes to mix up and yields about 3 dozen

Ingredients

• 3 eggs
• 1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 12-ounce jar creamy peanut butter
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 1/2 cup multi-colored chocolate candies
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup raisins, optional
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 4 1/2 cups quick-cooking oatmeal (not instant)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats.

In a very large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and sugars. Mix well. Add the salt, vanilla, peanut butter, and butter. Mix well. Stir in the chocolate candies, chocolate chips, raisins, if using, baking soda, and oatmeal. Drop by tablespoons 2 inches apart onto the prepared cookie sheets.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Do not overbake. Let stand for about 3 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool. When cool, store in large resealable plastic bags.