Introduction
M&M Cookies are a delightful treat that combines chewy, buttery goodness with colorful candy-coated chocolate pieces. They're perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or simply a cozy night in. With their appealing appearance and delicious flavor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. The best part? They're easy to make at home!
Ingredients
200g unsalted butter, softened
150g brown sugar
100g granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
300g all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
200g M&M’s candies
100g chocolate chips
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the M&M’s and chocolate chips.
7. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 5 cm apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These M&M Cookies are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the vibrant colors and rich flavors they bring!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Fold in M&M’s and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the M&M’s candies and chocolate chips into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is about 5 cm of space between each cookie.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Variations
You can customize these cookies by using different types of chocolate candies or nuts based on your preference.
Chilling the Dough
For a slightly different texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, which can enhance the flavor and prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Using a Mixer
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can simplify the creaming process and ensure an even mixture.
Storage Instructions
At Room Temperature
Store the M&M cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep them chewy and delicious.
In the Refrigerator
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
In the Freezer
To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairing
Serve the M&M cookies warm with a glass of cold milk. The combination is timeless and brings back childhood memories.
With Ice Cream
For a fun dessert, sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies to create a delicious cookie ice cream sandwich.
Decorative Touch
Arrange the cookies on a serving platter and garnish with additional M&M candies for an eye-catching presentation at parties or gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Per Cookie (Approx.)
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g
Values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter
You can substitute unsalted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar
If you don't have brown sugar, use granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor and texture.
All-Purpose Flour
For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend which should give a similar result.
M&M's
Feel free to substitute M&M's with any other type of chocolate candies or even dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Chips
Use white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even finely chopped nuts to add variation to your cookies.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Properly creaming the butter with both brown and granulated sugar creates a light and fluffy texture in the cookies. Make sure the butter is sufficiently softened for optimal mixing.
Incorporating Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to ensure even mixing. This helps to maintain the structure of the dough and improves the final cookie's texture.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. This step is crucial to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents clumps in the dough.
Folding in M&M's and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the M&M's and chocolate chips at the end. This prevents them from breaking apart and ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Spacing Cookies on the Baking Sheet
Scoop the dough onto the baking sheet with adequate space (about 5 cm apart) between each cookie. This allows for proper spreading during baking and prevents the cookies from merging into one.
Baking Time
Monitor the cookies closely while they bake. The edges should be lightly golden, and the center may look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
Cooling on a Wire Rack
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and maintain their chewy texture.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the overall flavor. If using salted butter, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe.
What can I substitute for M&M's?
You can substitute M&M's with other chocolate candies, nuts, or even dried fruit based on your preference.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Overmixing the dough or not chilling the dough before baking can cause excessive spreading. Ensure your butter isn’t too warm and consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes.
How do I ensure my cookies are chewy?
To achieve a chewy texture, do not overbake the cookies. Remove them from the oven while they are still slightly undercooked in the center.
Conclusion
These M&M Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Their chewy texture and colorful bursts of candy make them a perfect addition to any gathering or simply as an indulgent snack at home. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Chocolate Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
Add a half cup of peanut butter to the dough for a delicious twist. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter with M&M's creates a flavor explosion.
Oatmeal M&M Cookies
Mix in 100g of rolled oats for a heartier cookie. The oats add a wonderful texture while still allowing the bright M&M's to shine.
Double Chocolate M&M Cookies
Replace 50g of the flour with cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolatey cookie. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers.
Mint Chocolate M&M Cookies
Substitute regular M&M's with mint chocolate M&M's for a refreshing twist. This minty flavor will surprise and delight your taste buds.
White Chocolate M&M Cookies
Use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a creamy, sweet contrast with the M&M's. This results in a beautifully colorful cookie.
Rainbow M&M Cookies
Mix in M&M's from different themed bags for a festive look. For instance, use pastel colors for Easter or red and green for the holidays.
Stuffed M&M Cookies
Place a chocolate or caramel-filled candy in the center of each cookie before baking to create a gooey surprise. This will take your M&M cookies to the next level.
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