Healthier Monster Cookie Bars with Lemon Zest (Gluten-Free + Collagen Boost)

Looking for a treat that’s as cozy as it is colorful—and with a bright, springy twist? These Healthier Monster Cookie Bars with a Bright Lemon Twist are the perfect feel-good dessert to welcome the new season. Think chewy oats, creamy nut butter, sweet and salty chocolate bites, and a refreshing pop of citrus... all in one bite!

They're perfect for Easter baking, spring gatherings, or anytime you want a nourishing pick-me-up that still feels like a treat. Bonus? These bars are made with wholesome ingredients like oat flour, collagen powder, and coconut sugar—so they’re secretly fueling your glow from the inside out. ✨

🌼 Why You’ll Love These Lemon Monster Cookie Bars:

• 🍋 A fun twist on classic monster cookies with bright lemon zest
• 🥄 Packed with nourishing ingredients like oats, nut butter & collagen
• 🎨 Colorful, festive, and kid-friendly (hi, peanut m&ms!)
• ✨ Naturally gluten-free and refined sugar optional
• 🐣 Perfect for Easter weekend or spring potlucks

Ingredients:

🍯 Wet Ingredients:

-⅔ cup nut butter (peanut or almond both work well)

-⅓ cup coconut sugar

-⅓ cup maple syrup

-⅓ cup coconut oil, melted

-½ tsp salt

-2 tsp vanilla extract

🌾 Dry Ingredients:

-1 ⅓ cup rolled oats

-½ cup oat flour

-½ cup collagen powder

-zest of 1 lemon

🍬Add-ins:

-¾ cup white chocolate chips

-½ cup peanut M&Ms (or any candy-coated chocolate)

Instructions:

🥣 1. Prep Your Pan & Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper.

🍯 2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a small saucepan, combine the nut butter, coconut sugar, maple syrup, coconut oil, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

🌾 3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix the oats, oat flour, collagen powder, and lemon zest until well combined.

🍬 4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in half of the white chocolate chips and M&Ms, saving the other half for topping.

🍽️ 5. Press & Bake:

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the remaining chocolate and candy on top. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.

✨ 6. Cool & Slice:

Let the bars cool completely before slicing. For extra flavor, sprinkle with additional lemon zest before serving.

🧊 Storage Tips:

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw for 15 minutes before enjoying.

✨ Final Tips:

• Want even more citrus flavor? Add a touch of lemon extract or fresh lemon juice to the dough.
• Use naturally colored chocolate candies for a cleaner option.
• Perfect for meal prep or springtime gifting—wrap in parchment and tie with twine for an adorable homemade treat!

Enjoy Your Springtime Treat!

These bars are the perfect blend of chewy, sweet, and citrusy goodness! If you try this recipe, tag me on Instagram @theglowgirlwellness. I’d love to see your baking creations! 📸💖