The candy in these monster cookies makes them extra special. (Sandra Shields/The Epoch Times )

Make these delicious, large cookies for your child to bring as a Halloween treat for school. One cookie per kid will do. Wrap individually in cellophane bags and tie with Halloween ribbon to make them extra special.

Makes 18 large cookies

1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
5. 1 1/4 cups sugar
6. 2 large eggs
7. 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
8. Grated orange rind from one medium orange
9. 1 1/4 cups black and orange candy-coated chocolate (save 1/4 cup for tops of cookies)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two cookie trays with parchment paper. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt in medium bowl.

Cream butter and sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time and add vanilla extract and grated orange rind. Turn to low speed and add flour mixture. Stir in 1 cup of the candy with a wooden spoon.

Using a large ice cream scoop, drop cookie dough onto baking tray, leaving a 3-inch space between the cookies. Press down slightly to flatten. Press the remaining candy on top of cookies.