As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of cookies baking filled the air, instantly evoking childhood memories of after-school treats. These Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies are a delightful way to relive those moments, bringing joy to both young and old. With their soft, tender centers and bright, colorful M&Ms, these cookies are not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Imagine surprising your loved ones with a batch of these irresistible treats, perfect for cozy afternoons or lunchbox surprises. So, are you ready to indulge in some serious cookie magic? Let’s get baking!
Why are these cookies so special?
Chewy Texture: These Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies deliver a perfect balance of soft interiors and slightly crisp edges, making each bite a delight.
Vibrant Colors: The colorful M&Ms are not just for looks; they add sweetness and a crunch that surprises with every chew!
Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh-baked cookies in no time. This recipe is perfect for beginners or those looking to whip up a sweet treat last minute.
Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment by swapping in nuts or different chocolate chips, making it a versatile favorite in your baking repertoire.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for cookie swaps or family gatherings, these cookies will leave everyone wanting more, guaranteeing their place as a beloved staple.
Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to ensure perfect cookies; sift for a smoother texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise and achieve that amazing fluffiness; always check for freshness!
• Baking Soda – Adds a lovely chewiness and promotes browning; keep it active by using a fresh batch.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; fine sea salt is a delicious upgrade.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich flavor base and helps with texture; substitute with vegan margarine for a dairy-free treat.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your cookies and aids in browning; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and chewiness thanks to its molasses content; dark brown sugar will deepen the flavor profile.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and contributes moisture; replace it with a flaxseed egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• M&Ms – Provide bursts of sweetness and vibrant color; you can swap them for chocolate chips if desired, but keep the same amount.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This ensures an even mix of the dry ingredients, which is crucial for the perfect texture of your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars
Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed brown sugar on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating pockets of air that will help make the cookies tender. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Beat the mixture on low speed until fully blended, ensuring to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. This step is essential for achieving a uniform flavor throughout your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies, allowing the vanilla to enhance the overall sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture we desire. You can stop mixing as soon as there are no visible streaks of flour remaining, ensuring the dough remains tender.
Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of M&Ms and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips using a spatula. This step allows the vibrant candies to be evenly distributed throughout the dough. Make sure to mix carefully to avoid breaking up the M&Ms, which will give your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies their signature pop of color and flavor.
Step 6: Chill Dough
Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and place them on a baking tray. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. Chilling the dough is crucial as it helps control the spread during baking, resulting in thicker and chewier cookies that retain their shape beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and prepare for the cookies. Once the dough is chilled, place the balls on the prepared sheets, pressing a few extra M&Ms on top for a delightful touch and an eye-catching appearance.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. This is the key to achieving that irresistible softness in your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies. Keep an eye on them starting at the 9-minute mark for perfect results.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final cooling stage ensures that the cookies maintain their lovely chewy texture while allowing the flavors to settle, creating a delicious treat ready to enjoy.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and refrigerate them covered. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of minutes to the baking time. To maintain quality and ensure your cookies turn out just as delicious, make sure to chill the dough, which helps control spread and guarantees that delightful chewy texture. Enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Warm cookies fresh from the oven pair beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments, enhancing your treats and creating a memorable experience.
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Cold Milk: A classic pairing, the richness of chilled milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a nostalgic experience. Dipping your cookie in milk adds a whole new level of indulgence.
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Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the M&Ms, providing a perfect contrast that enhances the cookies' chewy texture. Enjoying a cookie with your morning brew sets a wonderful tone for the day.
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Ice Cream Sundae: Top your cookie with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top. This luscious dessert transforms your cookies into an indulgent sundae that delights the senses.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh berries or slices of crisp apples bring a refreshing brightness that pairs well with the sweet flavors. The natural tartness of the fruit cuts through the richness, creating a balanced snack option.
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Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate alongside your cookies for a comforting treat. The chocolatey goodness complements the M&Ms perfectly, turning any moment into a cozy celebration.
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Cheese Platter: For a unique twist, pair cookies with slices of sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The savory notes of cheese provide an irresistible balance to the sweet, chewy cookies, creating a sophisticated snack experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element, enhancing the overall dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside warm cookies for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
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Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful stickiness that elevates your treat into something truly special.
These pairings promise to enhance your enjoyment of Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies, making every bite a moment to savor.
How to Store and Freeze Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. This is perfect for enjoying fresh-baked cookies anytime!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5 minutes, ensuring they stay chewy.
Dough Storage: If you'd like to bake later, you can freeze individual dough balls. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before baking as directed.
Expert Tips for Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
- Perfect Butter Consistency: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This creates the ideal creamy texture needed for a soft and chewy cookie base.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stop mixing as soon as no visible flour remains. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
- Chill for Thickness: Chilling the dough is key to thick cookies. For a quicker option, pop it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
- Extra M&Ms: Press a few extra M&Ms into the tops before baking. This enhances presentation and ensures every bite bursts with chocolatey goodness.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies. Baking until the edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked is crucial for that perfect chewy texture in your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies.
Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies—they're a perfect canvas for your favorite flavors and ingredients!
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Nutty Delight: Substitute some of the flour with finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. Not only do they add texture, but they also bring a delightful rich flavor to each bite.
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Coconut Bliss: Add ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist. This will bring a subtle chewiness and a hint of sweetness that complements the M&Ms beautifully.
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Chocolate Overload: Use a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate chips instead of M&Ms. This variation will lead to a rich chocolatey explosion in every delightful bite—perfect for chocolate lovers!
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Spiced Kick: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice note. The subtle warmth will elevate your cookies, making them perfect for cozy evenings.
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Dried Fruits: Mix in ½ cup of your favorite dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, for a chewy burst of flavor. This adds both sweetness and a chewy texture, providing a delightful contrast to the chocolate.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Incorporate ¼ cup of peanut butter into the batter for a nutty richness. This can elevate your cookies from delicious to extraordinary, with creamy swirls enriching each bite.
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Gluten-Free Twist: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum to achieve that soft and chewy texture we crave.
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Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus zing. The bright flavor will surprise and delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy your cookies!
With these variations, you'll be able to tailor your cookies to any occasion or preference. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a fun treat for your kids, every twist offers something unique. Happy baking, and remember, the kitchen is your playground!
Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, particularly the butter, make sure it’s at room temperature for the best creaming. For eggs, ensure they’re fresh; look for a good “best before” date. As for M&Ms, choose vibrant ones without any signs of fading or damage to ensure they add a pop of color to your cookies!
How should I store my Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To help maintain their soft texture, place a slice of bread inside the container; this trick keeps cookies moist and delicious!
Can these cookies be frozen for later enjoyment?
Certainly! You can freeze your Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, layer them with parchment paper in the container to prevent sticking, and keep them solidly packed. To enjoy later, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired.
What if my cookies turn out too dry or crumbly?
Very good question! If your cookies end up dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or not measuring your flour accurately. For best results, spoon flour into measuring cups and level it off without packing. If you’re trying the recipe again, you might consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or brown sugar to add moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! These Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies can easily be made dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with vegan margarine and replacing the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Just remember, if you're baking for someone with allergies, ensure all ingredients, especially M&Ms, are checked for allergens!
Irresistibly Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed brown sugar on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat on low speed until fully blended.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of M&Ms and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips using a spatula.
- Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and place them on a baking tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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