These M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat for anyone who loves the combination of soft, chewy cookies with melty chocolate and colorful M&M candies. The cookie dough is buttery and rich, creating a perfect base for the chocolate chips and M&Ms to shine. With every bite, you’ll get a mix of smooth, semi-sweet chocolate and crunchy candy-coated M&Ms, making these cookies both delicious and fun. Whether you’re baking for a party, sharing with friends, or indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup softened, for a rich and buttery base.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, to add sweetness and structure to the cookies.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup packed, for a soft texture and deeper flavor.
- Eggs: 2 large, to bind the dough and add moisture.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, to enhance the flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups, to provide structure for the cookies.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, to help the cookies rise.
- Baking powder: ½ teaspoon, for an extra lift.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance the sweetness.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: 1 cup, for a classic chocolate chip cookie flavor.
- M&M candies: 1 cup, for a colorful and fun addition to the cookies.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture until fully combined.
- Step 5:
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and M&M candies.
- Step 6:
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If you want to freeze the dough for later, scoop it into balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer larger cookies, you can use a ¼ cup scoop for each cookie and bake for 10-12 minutes instead.
- To make the cookies extra colorful, press a few additional M&Ms into the top of each dough ball before baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Many chefs recommend chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape and develop more flavor.
Why You’ll Love These M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies
The combination of classic chocolate chip cookies with the colorful crunch of M&Ms makes these cookies a standout treat. They’re perfect for sharing, whether it’s at a party, as a gift, or as a fun dessert to bake with the kids. The soft, chewy texture of the cookie pairs perfectly with the semisweet chocolate chips, while the M&Ms add a pop of color and extra sweetness. Easy to make and always a hit, these cookies will bring joy to everyone who tries them!
Creative Variations for Your M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies
Want to switch things up? Try using different types of M&Ms, such as peanut or pretzel M&Ms, for added texture and flavor. You could also mix in other fun ingredients like chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows for an extra twist. For a holiday-themed version, use seasonal M&Ms in colors like red and green for Christmas, or pastels for Easter!
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, freeze the dough for up to 3 months and bake as needed.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
If using salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon to balance the flavors.
Can I use other types of M&Ms?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of M&Ms, such as peanut, peanut butter, or pretzel M&Ms, to add a unique twist to your cookies.
Can I freeze the cookies after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and thaw at room temperature before serving.