If you’re looking for a delicious, colorful, and fun treat, these Soft-Baked M&M Cookies are just the thing! They’re chewy, soft, and packed with chocolatey M&M candies that add a pop of sweetness and color in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, as a fun family activity, or just because you’re craving cookies, this easy recipe will help you create the perfect soft-baked M&M cookies that everyone will love.
What Are Soft-Baked M&M Cookies?
Soft-baked M&M cookies are a variation of classic chocolate chip cookies, but instead of using chocolate chips, M&M candies are mixed into the dough. The result is a vibrant, fun, and delicious cookie that combines the flavors of buttery dough with the rich, sweet crunch of M&M’s. The key to achieving that signature soft-baked texture is using the right amount of butter, sugar, and baking time to ensure the cookies stay chewy and tender, even after they’ve cooled.
These cookies are perfect for parties, as a festive treat for kids, or even just for indulging your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and can be customized with different types of M&M’s or even a mix of candies.
Ingredients List for Soft-Baked M&M Cookies
To make these soft-baked M&M cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and keeps the cookies soft.
- ¾ cup light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to the soft texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: A mix of brown and granulated sugar gives the cookies the perfect texture.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Eggs help bind the ingredients and keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving the cookies structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a little extra lift for that soft, fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 ½ cups M&M candies: The star of the show! You can use classic, peanut, or mini M&Ms, depending on your preference.
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips: For an extra chocolatey kick.
Substitutions and Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Butter alternatives: Replace the butter with plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
- Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Different M&M varieties: Try using peanut M&M’s, pretzel M&M’s, or even holiday-themed M&M’s for a fun twist.
- Mix-ins: Add chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for more texture and flavor.
- Peanut butter variation: Add ½ cup of peanut butter to the dough for peanut butter M&M cookies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s walk through how to make the perfect Soft-Baked M&M Cookies, step by step.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for this step. This process helps create air pockets, giving your cookies a soft texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Fold in M&M’s: Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in 1 cup of the M&M candies (reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping) and any other mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, if using. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Chill the dough: For best results, cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their thickness and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
- Shape the cookies: Once the dough has chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press a few extra M&M’s onto the top of each dough ball for a colorful presentation.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them!
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Cook Soft-Baked M&M Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making soft-baked M&M cookies is easy if you follow these steps carefully:
- Measure ingredients accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour to avoid packing it down, which can make the cookies dense.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough is key to achieving that perfect soft-baked texture and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, be sure to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Press extra M&M’s on top: This ensures that the colorful candies are visible and gives the cookies a fun, festive look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the cookie's shape and ensuring a soft, chewy texture.
- Overbaking: If you leave the cookies in the oven too long, they will become hard and dry. Always take them out when the edges are set but the centers still look soft.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, dense cookies.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter and eggs won’t incorporate properly, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Soft-baked M&M cookies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. The contrast of the soft, chewy cookie and the crunchy M&M candies makes them a perfect treat for any occasion.
How to Serve Soft-Baked M&M Cookies
- On a cookie platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter with other homemade treats like brownies or chocolate chip cookies for a fun dessert spread.
- With a glass of milk: These cookies are a classic match for a cold glass of milk.
- As party favors: Wrap a few cookies in a decorative bag tied with a ribbon for a cute, homemade party favor or gift.
Presentation Ideas for Soft-Baked M&M Cookies
- Add extra M&M’s on top: Press a few extra M&M’s into the tops of the cookies before baking to make them look even more colorful and festive.
- Seasonal M&M’s: Use holiday-themed M&M’s (such as red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter) to match the occasion.
- Gift-ready packaging: Stack a few cookies in a clear plastic bag or box, tied with a ribbon for a simple, thoughtful gift.
Soft-Baked M&M Cookies Recipe Tips
- Chill the dough: This is key to making thick, soft cookies.
- Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
- Bake in small batches: To ensure consistent baking, avoid overcrowding your baking sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Scoop the cookie dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
2. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
3. Why are my cookies flat?
If your cookies are spreading too much, the dough may be too warm. Be sure to chill the dough before baking. Also, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately, as too much butter or sugar can cause the cookies to spread.
4. Can I make the cookies smaller or larger?
Yes! If you prefer smaller cookies, use a teaspoon of dough for each cookie and reduce the baking time. For larger cookies, use a bigger scoop of dough and increase the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Soft-baked M&M cookies are a fun, colorful, and delicious treat that everyone loves. With their soft, chewy centers and crispy edges, plus the added sweetness and crunch of M&M’s, they’re perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe will help you make a batch of cookies that are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to friends, or just baking for fun, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy baking your very own soft-baked M&M cookies! Happy baking! 🍪
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Soft-Baked M&M Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This soft-baked M&M cookies recipe is perfect for those who love chewy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies packed with colorful M&Ms. Made with simple ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, these cookies have a tender texture with a slight crisp on the edges. Great for parties, holidays, or just as an after-school snack, these fun and colorful cookies will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups M&Ms (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in 1 ¼ cups of M&Ms.
- Roll dough into balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the tops and press a few more M&Ms on top of each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Be sure not to overbake to keep the cookies soft.
- For an extra touch, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for a chewier texture.
- Use holiday-themed M&Ms for seasonal variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
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