Soft M&M Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of soft, chewy cookies and colorful M&M’s that bring out the kid in all of us. This Soft M&M Cookies Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a bake sale, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why Soft M&M Cookies Recipe is Worth Your Time

If you’re searching for a cookie that’s soft and chewy with a delightful crunch of chocolate and a pop of color, look no further! This Soft M&M Cookies Recipe is quick and easy, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. The buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of M&M’s creates a perfect balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—feel free to switch up the M&M’s for different occasions or use various add-ins to customize them to your liking.

What We’re Using

• Unsalted butter, softened – Provides the rich, buttery flavor.
• Packed light or dark brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Granulated sugar – For sweetness and a slight crispiness.
• All-purpose flour – The main structure of the cookies.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become soft.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness.
• Cornstarch – Ensures the cookies remain soft and chewy.
• Large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Pink sprinkles (optional) – Adds a festive touch.
• M&M’s (I used Dark Chocolate Valentine’s Day edition) – The star of the show!

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugars a breeze.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accurate measurements.
• Baking sheet – A sturdy base for your cookies.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap.
• Cookie scoop – For uniform cookie sizes.

Soft M&M Cookies Recipe: How It’s Done

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring your cookies don’t stick.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in one large egg and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the M&M’s

Gently fold in the M&M’s and, if desired, the pink sprinkles for a whimsical touch. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Soft M&M Cookies!

What to Use Instead

• Butter: You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan option.
• Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a little molasses.
• Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• M&M’s: Feel free to swap in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit based on your preferences.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Using cold butter can prevent proper creaming. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature.
• Not allowing cookies to cool before removing them can cause breakage. Be patient!

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour before transferring to a freezer bag for longer storage. These cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a minute or two to the baking time.

Popular Questions

Can I use different types of M&M’s in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your M&M’s. You can use peanut, pretzel, or seasonal varieties to match holidays or special occasions.

How do I make my cookies softer?

To ensure a softer cookie, do not overbake them. The cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Can I use this dough for other cookie recipes?

Yes! This dough base is versatile. You can use it to create The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies or even turn it into Chocolate Fudge Cookie Sandwiches by adding a filling.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store your Soft M&M Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them or freeze for extended enjoyment.

What to Make After This

• Cake Mix Cookies Recipe – Quick and easy cookies with endless flavor possibilities.
• The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic recipe that never disappoints.
• Chocolate Fudge Cookie Sandwiches – A decadent treat for chocolate lovers.

Wrap-Up

These Soft M&M Cookies are the perfect way to add a little color and sweetness to your day. With their chewy texture, soft centers, and delightful bursts of chocolate, they’re sure to please everyone. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. Happy baking!