Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *soft M&M cookies*! They’re truly a delight, bursting with colorful M&M chocolates that not only make them visually stunning but also add that perfect pop of sweetness to each bite. Every time I bake these cookies, I’m transported back to my childhood, where each cookie feels like a little celebration. The moment they come out of the oven, the smell fills my kitchen, and I can hardly wait for them to cool before diving in. Trust me, you’ll be hooked on their soft, chewy texture that just melts in your mouth!
What makes this recipe stand out for me is how simple it is while still delivering that amazing homemade cookie experience. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a good mixer and some love! Plus, the vibrant colors of the M&Ms not only brighten up the cookies but also make them perfect for any occasion, be it birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in with a glass of milk. I love how each cookie can be a little piece of art, and they’re always a hit with family and friends. So, let’s get baking—you’re going to love these cookies as much as I do!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious *soft M&M cookies*. Make sure to measure accurately for the best results. Let’s dive into the ingredients!
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookies, giving them structure and that delightful chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This little ingredient helps the cookies rise beautifully without making them too cakey. It’s essential for that soft center!
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Bring it to room temperature for that perfect creamy texture when you mix it. It adds richness and flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: The brown sugar not only sweetens the cookies but also contributes to their moistness and gives them a lovely caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This adds a bit of sweetness and helps create a crisp edge while keeping the center soft.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Don’t skip this one!
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: This magical ingredient adds warmth and depth to the cookies. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- 2 large eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best mixing.
- 2 cups M&M candies: The star of the show! Choose colorful M&Ms to make your cookies pop. They bring a fun crunch and sweetness in every bite.
How to Prepare the Soft MM Cookies Recipe with Colorful M&Ms
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part—baking these delicious *soft M&M cookies*! The process is straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Let’s make sure we get everything just right!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft. While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. You can also use silicone baking mats if you have them—they work like a charm!
Mixing the Dough
Now, let’s get mixing! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. You’ll want to beat this mixture until it’s light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes should do the trick. This step is key because it incorporates air into the batter, helping your cookies to be soft and airy.
Once that’s done, add in the salt and vanilla extract, mixing until everything’s well combined. Now, it’s time to add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, ensuring you mix well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth batter, so don’t rush through this part!
Next, gradually add in the flour mixture (the flour and baking soda you whisked together earlier). Mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough. The dough should be thick and a little sticky, which is perfect!
Folding in M&Ms
Now for the best part—folding in the colorful M&Ms! Gently use a spatula to incorporate them into the dough. Be sure to fold, don’t stir! This technique helps keep the cookies soft and chewy, plus it prevents the M&Ms from breaking apart. You want those vibrant colors to shine through in every cookie!
Baking and Cooling
Alright, it’s time to bake these beauties! Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft—trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool!
Once they come out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This little resting time is crucial because it allows them to set up just right. After that, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist, but be patient! These cookies are best enjoyed when they’ve cooled down just a bit.
Tips for Success
Before you dive into baking, I’ve got some pro tips to help you achieve the absolute best *soft M&M cookies*. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference in your cookie game!
- Chill the Dough: If you want thicker, chewier cookies, consider chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the butter solidify a bit, which means less spreading in the oven. Plus, it intensifies the flavors!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want that soft, pillowy texture, so be gentle!
- Experiment with Extracts: While vanilla is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to get adventurous! Try adding almond extract for a unique twist or even a splash of orange zest for a hint of freshness. It’s amazing how just a little change can elevate the flavor!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend more easily and creates a smoother batter, which contributes to that soft texture!
- Check for Doneness: Remember, cookies will continue to cook a bit after they come out of the oven. Aim for golden edges and soft centers. If they look a bit underbaked, that’s perfect! They’ll set up nicely as they cool.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. Start checking them at the 10-minute mark. If they seem to be browning too quickly, rotate the baking sheet for even baking.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect batch of *soft M&M cookies*! Happy baking!
Variations on the Soft MM Cookies Recipe
If you’re like me and love to experiment in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know there are so many fun ways to shake things up with these *soft M&M cookies*! Here are a few delicious variations that will keep your cookie game fresh and exciting:
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap out half of the M&Ms for your favorite chocolate chips! This classic combination adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that’s hard to resist. You could even mix in dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
- Peanut Butter M&Ms: For a nutty twist, use Peanut Butter M&Ms instead of the regular ones. The combination of soft cookie and creamy peanut butter candy is simply divine! It adds a lovely richness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cookie.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Change up the M&Ms based on the season or holiday! For Halloween, use orange and black M&Ms, or for Christmas, go for red and green. It’s a simple way to make your cookies festive and fun for any occasion.
- Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different flavored extracts! Instead of vanilla, try almond or coconut extract to give your cookies a unique twist. Just a teaspoon can transform the flavor profile and make them feel like a whole new treat.
- Nutty Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount of M&Ms slightly to keep your cookie dough balanced.
- Oatmeal Addition: For a heartier cookie, mix in some rolled oats (about 1 cup) for a chewy texture and a bit of fiber. Oatmeal and M&Ms together create a cookie that’s both satisfying and delicious!
With these variations, you can keep things exciting in your kitchen and create a batch of *soft M&M cookies* that’s uniquely yours. So go ahead, mix it up, and take your baking to the next level! Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked your delicious *soft M&M cookies*, you might be wondering how to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to store those beauties and bring back that soft texture when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
To store your cookies, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial because if you store them while still warm, moisture can build up and make them soggy. Once they’re cool, place the cookies in an airtight container. I like to layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This method keeps them soft and chewy for about 5-7 days at room temperature.
If you want to keep them fresh even longer, you can freeze your cookies! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. After they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper again. They’ll stay delightful for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to indulge in your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This little zap brings back that fresh-baked softness and makes them oh-so-delicious! Just be careful not to overheat them or they might turn a bit tough.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your *soft M&M cookies* for days to come. So go ahead, bake a big batch, and savor those sweet moments anytime you crave a little treat!
Nutritional Information
As with any delicious treat, the nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. This information is based on a standard serving size of one cookie, but keep in mind that your results may differ slightly.
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Always consider your dietary preferences and needs when enjoying these scrumptious *soft M&M cookies*. Happy baking and enjoy every delightful bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can definitely swap out the M&Ms for other types of chocolate to suit your taste. If you’re a fan of classic chocolate chip cookies, go ahead and use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead. You could even mix it up with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a sweet twist! Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavored chocolates or even peanut butter chips for a delightful surprise in every bite. Just remember to keep the total measurement around 2 cups, so your cookie dough stays balanced!
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Ah, the age-old question! The best way to tell if your *soft M&M cookies* are done is to look for those golden edges while ensuring the centers still look a bit soft and puffy. They should not be overly browned. I usually start checking at the 10-minute mark. If the edges are just turning golden and the center still has a slight jiggle, they’re perfect! They’ll firm up a little as they cool, giving you that deliciously soft center we love. If in doubt, it’s always better to underbake slightly than to overbake, so trust your instincts!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the cookie dough! This is a great option if you want to bake a fresh batch later. Just scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls for about an hour until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them! Just pop them straight into the preheated oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime the craving hits!
For more tips on baking cookies, you can check out King Arthur Baking’s cookie recipes.
To learn more about the science behind baking, visit Serious Eats’ science of baking.
Print
Soft M&M Cookies Recipe with Colorful M&Ms for Joyful Baking
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and chewy cookies loaded with colorful M&M chocolates.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups M&M candies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
- In a mixer, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add salt and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the M&M candies.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Notes
- For variations, substitute half of the M&Ms with chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with different flavored extracts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: soft mm cookies recipe, colorful mms cookies
