Simple Soft-baked M&m Cookies Recipe in Minutes

Simple Soft-baked M&M Cookies Recipe in Minutes: A Cheerful, Colorful Treat for Any Occasion 🍪🌈✨

1. Introduction

Who doesn’t love soft-baked M&M cookies? These delightful treats are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a baking novice looking for an easy snack recipe or a seasoned pro, this simple soft-baked M&M cookies recipe will become your go-to for a quick, delicious dessert. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these chewy, colorful cookies in no time!

2. Ingredients

To make these easy M&M cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients (most of which you probably already have in your pantry!):

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (for that perfect cookie texture)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar (this gives the cookies their signature chewiness)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature works best)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure vanilla makes a difference!)
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly for best results)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt (balances the sweetness perfectly)
• 1 ½ cups M&M candies (use seasonal colors for holidays!)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready. This quick soft M&M cookies recipe moves fast, so having everything prepared will make the process seamless. Pro tip: If you’re making these for a special breakfast treat, prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for creating the perfect cookie texture! Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should look creamy and uniform.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop once the dough comes together. The dough should be thick but pliable – if it’s too sticky, you can add 1-2 tablespoons more flour.

Step 4: Fold in M&Ms and Bake

Gently fold in the M&M candies, reserving a few for topping if desired. For extra color, press a few additional M&Ms on top of each cookie dough ball before baking. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. For perfect cookies every time, rotate your baking sheet halfway through baking.

4. Tips for Perfect Soft-Baked M&M Cookies

• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they look slightly underdone—they’ll firm up as they cool. The centers should look slightly moist when you take them out.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smoother dough. Cold eggs can cause the butter to seize up.
• Customize Your Colors: Use seasonal M&Ms for holidays or special occasions. This makes them perfect for party desserts alongside cupcakes!
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Baking Sheet Matters: Light-colored baking sheets work best to prevent over-browning.

5. Variations

This simple M&M cookie recipe is versatile! Try these fun twists to make them your own:

• Add ½ cup chocolate chips for extra richness (perfect for chocolate lovers!)
• Mix in chopped nuts for a crunchy texture (walnuts or pecans work great)
• Swap M&Ms for Reese’s Pieces for a peanut butter twist
• Add 1 tsp cinnamon for a warm spice flavor
• Make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

If you love creative cookie recipes, you might also enjoy our cookies and cream sheet cake for another easy dessert option!

6. Storage Instructions

Store your soft-baked M&M cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture. For longer storage, you can:

• Freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months (bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time)
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months (thaw at room temperature)

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch. The cookies may spread more with margarine.

Q: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
A: This could be due to overly softened butter or a warm baking sheet. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if needed. Also check that your baking soda is fresh!

Q: Can I make these cookies without eggs?
A: For egg-free cookies, you can try using ¼ cup applesauce or 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) per egg needed.

Q: How can I make these cookies extra soft?
A: Try adding 1-2 tbsp cornstarch to the dry ingredients for an extra soft texture, similar to our cheesecake bars texture!

8. Why This Recipe Works

This easy M&M cookies recipe from Celebrating Sweets strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness. The combination of brown sugar and butter ensures a soft, chewy texture, while the M&Ms add pops of color and sweetness. The recipe has been tested multiple times to guarantee perfect results every time. Plus, the quick prep time means you can satisfy your cookie craving in minutes – faster than making macarons or brownies!

9. Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate simple soft-baked M&M cookies recipe that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to please. Whether you’re baking for a party, a snack, or just because, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. They’re perfect for bake sales, school events, or as a sweet treat after pizza night. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the colorful, chewy goodness of homemade M&M cookies today! And if you love these, don’t forget to check out our other fun dessert recipes too! 🍪🎉

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