Why Make This Recipe
M and M Chocolate Cookies stand out because they combine the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with the fun, colorful crunch of M and M candies. This delightful recipe is loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply to enjoy at home. The vibrant colors of the M and Ms will brighten anyone’s day.
Baking these cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s also a great way to bond with family and friends. The process is simple and enjoyable, inviting everyone to lend a hand. Plus, who doesn’t love a fresh batch of cookies straight from the oven?
Equipment Needed for M and M Chocolate Cookies
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, you will need some essential equipment. First, having a set of mixing bowls in various sizes will help you keep your ingredients organized. A measuring cup and spoons ensure accurate amounts, while an electric mixer can make creaming butter and sugars a breeze.
Don’t forget a baking sheet and parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with even baking. A silicone spatula will come in handy when folding in those delicious M and Ms. Finally, having a cookie scoop can make portioning the dough easier, ensuring your cookies are uniform in size.
What You Need to Make M and M Chocolate Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup M and M chocolate candies
How to Cook M and M Chocolate Cookies Step by Step
To start off, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown hue. While your oven warms up, find a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a hand mixer or stand mixer. You will want to mix until the ingredients turn smooth and fluffy.
Once your sugar and butter mixture looks great, it’s time to add in the eggs. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure they are incorporated thoroughly before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract at this point, adding a rich flavor to your cookie dough.
In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda and all-purpose flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing it just until it is combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Let’s not forget the star of the show—gently fold in the M and M candies. The colorful candies should be evenly distributed throughout the dough.
After mixing the ingredients, it is crucial to chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough tightens it up, helping to create cookies that rise beautifully and don’t spread too much while baking. This step may take a bit of patience, but the end result will be worth it.
Now that the dough has chilled, it’s time to scoop it onto a prepared baking sheet. Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoons, drop mounds of dough onto a silicone baking mat or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each piece, as the cookies will spread while baking.
Bake these delicious cookies for around 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers might look a little soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.
How to Make M and M Chocolate Cookies
Making M and M Chocolate Cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can enjoy. Begin by gathering all your ingredients in one spot, making it easier to follow the steps. This recipe is all about combining flavors and textures, so keeping everything organized helps!
Creaming the butter and sugars together requires some elbow grease or an electric mixer, so be prepared for a smooth, fluffy mixture. This is the foundation for your cookies. Once you’ve added the eggs and vanilla, your dough will already be filled with rich flavor.
By mixing the dry ingredients separately, you’re ensuring they are evenly distributed. Gradual addition to the wet mixture is key, preventing clumps and ensuring a nice, consistent dough. Remember to fold in the M and Ms gently. This will keep the cookies tender and hold their shape.
Chilling the dough might feel like a wait, but during this time, you can clean up your workspace or think about any variations you’d like to try next time. Portioning the dough into rounded scoops gives each cookie a uniform look, promising that every bite will be balanced with sweet M and M pieces.
Finally, watch your cookies closely as they bake; everyone’s oven can vary slightly. Don’t forget the cooling time! Enjoy the aroma of the cookies wafting through your kitchen as they bake, and get ready for delicious homemade treats.
How to Serve M and M Chocolate Cookies
Serving your M and M Chocolate Cookies is part of the fun! These cookies can be enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, or after they’ve cooled completely. They are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk to balance their sweetness.
Consider arranging the cookies on a pretty plate, maybe with some seasonal decorations, if you’re serving them at a gathering. They can also be packaged nicely as gifts, making perfect treats for birthdays or holidays.
Additionally, you can create cookie sandwiches by placing a scoop of ice cream between two cookies. This adds an extra layer of fun and flavor that everyone will adore!
What to Serve with M and M Chocolate Cookies
M and M Chocolate Cookies are perfect to serve alongside a variety of beverages. A classic pairing is cold milk, which contrasts the sweetness and enriches the chocolate flavors. Hot beverages like coffee or tea can also complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
If you want to make a dessert platter, consider serving the cookies with brownies or mini cupcakes for a festive touch. Fresh fruits, like strawberries or raspberries, can add a refreshing element to your spread and balance the indulgence of the cookies.
For kids’ parties, consider serving these cookies alongside some colorful fruit juices or smoothies. This creates a festive atmosphere and makes for a fun and delightful selection that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store M and M Chocolate Cookies
Storing your M and M Chocolate Cookies is essential to keep them fresh and delicious. Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from getting stale and retains their texture. If you stack them, consider placing parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage. To do this, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature for a bit.
If you prefer to freeze the dough instead of baked cookies, you can portion it into balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you want fresh cookies, simply take out the desired amount and bake them directly from frozen.
Tips to Make M and M Chocolate Cookies
To create the best M and M Chocolate Cookies, always start with room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
Another tip is not to over-mix the dough once you’ve added the flour. Mix it just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
Chilling the dough is crucial. If you’re short on time, consider chilling for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
Experimenting with different types of M and M candies can also add variety to your cookies. Consider using chocolate peanut butter M and Ms or even holiday-themed colors for special occasions.
Variation
For a fun twist on the classic recipe, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. This addition gives the cookies an extra crunch that many people enjoy.
You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier cookie. This will change the texture a little but provides more fiber.
Another variation could involve adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking. This contrast of sweet and salty can elevate the flavor profile and make them even more irresistible.
Best Time to Make M and M Chocolate Cookies
M and M Chocolate Cookies are excellent to make year-round, but they shine during holidays and celebrations. Anytime there’s a family gathering, birthday, or school event, these cookies are a hit.
Baking them during the weekend can become a fun family tradition. Kids love to help with mixing and folding in the M and Ms.
The best time for baking also includes rainy days when you want something comforting. The baking process fills your home with a warm aroma that evokes feelings of nostalgia and happiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is forgetting to preheat the oven. Skipping this step can result in unevenly baked cookies. It’s essential to allow your oven enough time to reach the right temperature.
Another mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Baking is a science; using the correct amounts of flour and sugar impacts the final texture of your cookies. Always level your measuring cups for precise results.
Over-baking is another mistake to be wary of. Keep an eye on your cookies, as they can go from perfectly baked to overly crispy very quickly.
Finally, don’t skip chilling the dough. This step is crucial for creating the right texture, so embrace the waiting time for the best results.
Nutritional Notes
While M and M Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Each cookie provides a mix of fats, sugars, and carbohydrates.
If you are looking to make healthier options, consider using reduced sugar or dark chocolate M and Ms. These alternatives can help balance the sweetness while providing essential nutrients.
For those sensitive to dietary restrictions, be cautious about the ingredients used, particularly the M and Ms, which may contain allergens.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate candies?
Yes! Feel free to use any type of chocolate candies you prefer, including mini chocolate chips or seasonal M and Ms.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and slightly soft centers. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! They can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Conclusion
M and M Chocolate Cookies are a fun and delicious treat that brings joy to any occasion. Their colorful appearance and delightful taste make them a favorite among people of all ages. The baking process is simple and enjoyable, allowing for creativity and family bonding.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll create mouthwatering cookies that are sure to impress. Whether shared with friends, enjoyed at a gathering, or savored at home, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the baking begin!
