M&M Cookies

M&M cookies are one of those delightful treats that bring back fond memories of childhood. The moment you spot those colorful candies, you can’t help but smile. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a family gathering, or just because you want something sweet, M&M cookies fit the bill. They’re easy to make and even more fun to eat. Imagine biting into a warm, buttery cookie, with little bursts of chocolate sweetness from the M&Ms. It’s sheer joy. This recipe walks you through creating the perfect batch, balancing crispy edges with a chewy center, and ensuring every cookie is packed with those iconic candies. So, get ready to make some delicious memories in the kitchen!

Why This Recipe Works

M&M cookies are the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The combination of crispy edges, chewy centers, and colorful M&M candy pieces creates an exciting and satisfying experience in every bite. This cookie recipe highlights the importance of measuring ingredients correctly, ensuring the right balance of sweetness and texture. Each ingredient plays a role, from the buttery richness to the playful crunch of the M&Ms, making it a beloved classic.

Why You’ll Love This M&M Cookies

These M&M cookies are ideal for any occasion—birthdays, parties, or just a cozy night in. The vibrant colors of the M&Ms bring joy, while the rich, buttery cookie base will have you coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch any time the craving strikes! You’ll love sharing them with friends and family, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself polishing off a few all on your own.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 g) baking soda
• 1 tsp (5 g) salt
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (330 g) dark brown sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract
• 12 oz (340 g) mini M&Ms

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Whisk Dry Ingredients

First things first! In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is important, as it ensures that the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Set aside to combine the dry ingredients.

Cream Butter and Sugars

Now, grab your stand mixer. In the bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar for a few minutes at medium speed. You want it to be smooth and well combined. This is where the magic of texture begins!

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, it’s time to add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. The aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy baking haven.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the prepared flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until the cookie dough comes together. Remember to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing. This is crucial for that perfect cookie texture!

Form Cookie Dough Balls

Time for the fun part! Use a large cookie scoop (about 3 tablespoons) to portion out the cookie dough. Roll each dough ball in mini M&Ms, pressing the candies into the dough to make sure they’re evenly distributed and covered. They should look colorful and inviting!

Chilling and Baking

Chill the Cookie Dough

Place those M&M-covered cookie dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, so don’t skip it!

Preheat the Oven

While the cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper to avoid sticking. The exciting part is just around the corner!

Bake the Cookies

Once the dough is chilled, arrange the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space for spreading. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly underbaked. The cookies will continue to firm up after you take them out.

Cool the Cookies

After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the pan for 2 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your home will be absolutely irresistible!

Serving Suggestions

M&M cookies shine on their own, but if you’re feeling indulgent, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookie paired with cold ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture. This allows for easier mixing and a smoother cookie.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it prevents spreading and helps keep those beautiful cookie shapes.
• For added flavor, try using a mix of different M&M colors or flavors. You can even go for seasonal M&Ms for festive touches!

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Substitute M&Ms with your favorite chocolate chips or nuts for a delicious twist. Another great idea is to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combination that will leave you wanting more.

Storage Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze the dough or the baked cookies. Just make sure they’re well wrapped!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular M&Ms instead of mini M&Ms?
Yes, you can substitute regular M&Ms, but mini M&Ms provide a better cookie-to-candy ratio, enhancing that sweet experience.

2. What’s the best way to freeze cookie dough?
Scoop cookie dough balls and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for later use. Baking them straight from the freezer works beautifully too!

3. How do I know when M&M cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly browned while the centers look slightly underbaked. Trust the process; they will firm up nicely as they cool.

4. Can I make these cookies smaller?
Definitely! Adjust the baking time depending on the size of your dough balls, checking them a few minutes earlier. Smaller cookies are just as delicious!

5. Are M&M cookies suitable for vegan diets?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute butter with a vegan alternative and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg. You won’t miss a thing!

M&M cookies are a nostalgic treat that brings joy and color to any table. With their soft, chewy centers and delightful crunch from the candy coating, each bite is a celebration. Perfect for sharing (or keeping to yourself!), these cookies will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire. The easy-to-follow instructions make it simple for even novice bakers to achieve perfection. So, gather your ingredients and try them out today; the sweet nostalgia of M&M cookies awaits you!

Print