M&M Sugar Cookies
There’s something undeniably delightful about baking cookies that melt in your mouth and bring a splash of color to your plate. M&M Sugar Cookies are a whimsical twist on the classic sugar cookie, combining the sweetness of sugar with the crunch of colorful M&Ms. These cookies are perfect for celebrations, after-school snacks, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a buttery, soft center and a slight crisp on the edges, they’re a treat that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the delightful world of M&M Sugar Cookies!
Why It Works Every Time
The beauty of M&M Sugar Cookies lies in their simplicity and the balance of flavors. The combination of unsalted butter and vegetable shortening creates a rich, tender cookie that holds its shape beautifully. The addition of cream of tartar lends a slight tanginess that enhances the sweetness, while the M&Ms add a fun pop of chocolate and color. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe guarantees a perfect batch every time!
Ingredient Rundown
- 2 cups/312g all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them a nice texture.
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar: Adds a slight tang and contributes to the cookie’s softness.
- ¾ cup/168g unsalted butter, at room temperature: The primary fat source for a rich flavor and tender texture.
- ¾ cup/58g unflavored vegetable shortening, at room temperature: Keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
- 1 cup/250g granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a crispy edge.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature: Enriches the dough and makes the cookies even softer.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cookies with warm, sweet flavor.
- 1 cup/130g milk chocolate M&Ms, plus more for topping: Adds color, texture, and a delightful chocolatey flavor.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements for perfect cookies.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.
- Baking sheets: The surface on which the cookies will bake.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop: To portion the cookie dough evenly.
Method: M&M Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Shortening
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and vegetable shortening until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs
Add the granulated sugar to the creamed mixture and beat until well combined. Then, add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Fold in M&Ms
Gently fold in the milk chocolate M&Ms, reserving a handful for topping the cookies.
Step 7: Scoop Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few extra M&Ms into the top of each cookie.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.
Step 9: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Seasonal Spins
- Holiday M&M Sugar Cookies: Use red and green M&Ms for a festive touch during the holidays.
- Spring Fling: Substitute pastel-colored M&Ms for a springtime treat.
- Birthday Bash: Add colorful sprinkles along with the M&Ms for an extra celebratory vibe.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- For a thicker cookie, add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of flour to the dough.
- If the cookies are too dry, ensure you measured your flour correctly, as too much flour can lead to an overly dry cookie.
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet.
How to Store & Reheat
To store your M&M Sugar Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Questions People Ask
Can I use other types of M&Ms?
Absolutely! Feel free to use peanut M&Ms, crispy M&Ms, or even seasonal varieties to customize your cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
What can I substitute for vegetable shortening?
You can replace vegetable shortening with more butter or use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
How do I make these cookies softer?
To achieve a softer cookie, ensure you do not overbake them. The centers should look slightly underdone before removing them from the oven.
What to Make After This
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Double Chocolate Cookies
The Takeaway
M&M Sugar Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to bring joy to any gathering. With their vibrant colors and delicious flavor, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of butter and shortening brings out the best texture, while the M&Ms offer that delightful crunch. Follow this guide, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any platter. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with friends, these M&M Sugar Cookies are a delightful reminder of the joy of baking!
M&M Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and vegetable shortening until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the granulated sugar to the creamed mixture and beat until well combined. Then, add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Step 6: Gently fold in the milk chocolate M&Ms, reserving a handful for topping the cookies.
- Step 7: Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few extra M&Ms into the top of each cookie.
- Step 8: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.
- Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a thicker cookie, add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of flour to the dough.
- To store, place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a festive touch, use red and green M&Ms during the holidays.
