Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
There’s something undeniably magical about cookies that are both soft and chewy, especially when they are packed with colorful M&M candies. These Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. With a buttery base and a vibrant burst of chocolatey goodness, these cookies are sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s dive into the delightful world of cookie baking!
The Upside of Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Why are these cookies so special? For starters, their texture is a perfect balance of soft and chewy, making them irresistible. The M&Ms add a splash of color and a delightful crunch, enhancing each bite. Not only are they easy to make, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. Plus, who can resist the nostalgia of biting into a cookie that reminds us of childhood?
What Goes In
- 1 cup (228g) all-purpose flour – The foundation of our cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature – Provides richness and moisture.
- 1 cup (160g) light brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and chewiness.
- 1/2 cup (50g) granulated sugar – Contributes to the cookie’s crisp edges.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses the cookies with warm, sweet notes.
- 1 cup (312g) M&M candies (or a combination of M&Ms and chocolate chips) – The star ingredient that adds color and sweetness.
Appliances & Accessories
- Mixing Bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix dry ingredients and cream butter and sugars.
- Spatula – Perfect for folding in M&Ms.
- Baking Sheet – Where the magic happens, as your cookies bake.
- Parchment Paper – Keeps cookies from sticking and makes clean-up easy.
- Oven – The essential appliance that transforms dough into delicious cookies.
Step-by-Step: Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s creamy and light in color, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 7: Fold in M&Ms
Using a spatula, gently fold in the M&M candies (and chocolate chips if you’re using them). Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies warm or store them for later!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.
- Mix It Up: Swap M&Ms for nuts or dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
- Using cold butter instead of room temperature can impact the texture.
- Not measuring the flour correctly can result in dry cookies.
- Baking too long can make the cookies hard instead of soft and chewy.
Shelf Life & Storage
These Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds!
Common Qs About Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Can I use different types of M&Ms in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different varieties of M&Ms, or even use chocolate chips for a variation.
What if I don’t have light brown sugar?
If you don’t have light brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar, but the cookies may not be as chewy. Alternatively, you can make your own brown sugar by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
See You at the Table
Baking these Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s about creating moments and memories. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them solo with a glass of milk, each cookie is a reminder of the joy that simple treats can bring. So gather your ingredients, turn on that oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen! Happy baking!
Super Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until creamy and light in color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the M&M candies.
- Drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Use different types of M&Ms or chocolate chips for variety.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
