Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe

There is something truly magical about a cookie that manages to be both soft and chewy, bursting with colorful crunchy M&Ms in every bite. This Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe hits all the right notes, balancing rich buttery flavor and just enough sweetness to satisfy any cookie craving. Whether you’re baking for a casual treat or a special occasion, these cookies never fail to bring smiles and a nostalgic joy that tastes just like homemade happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work effortlessly together to create those deliciously tender cookies with a delightful crunch and vibrant pops of color from M&Ms. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance.

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the cookie’s tender crumb.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth that makes these cookies irresistibly chewy.
• Vegetable shortening: Gives structure and softness without overwhelming richness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor, helping to create a tender base.
• Pure vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the chewy texture.
• All-purpose flour: Creates the structure and body of the cookies.
• Baking soda: Helps cookies rise slightly and develop a soft, tender texture.
• Coarse sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• Kosher salt: Adds subtle seasoning for depth.
• M&M’s candies: The colorful star ingredient that adds crunch, fun, and bursts of chocolate in every mouthful.

How to Make Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and place the baking rack in the middle position for even baking. Line 2 or 3 large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine the Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, blend the granulated sugar and dark brown sugar together on low speed until just combined. This helps distribute sweetness evenly throughout your dough.

Step 3: Cream the Fats

Add the vegetable shortening and unsalted butter to the sugar mixture, then beat on medium speed until the mixture lightens in color and becomes smooth, about 3 minutes. This step is key for that soft texture everyone loves.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the pure vanilla extract on medium speed for 30 seconds. This will fill your kitchen with the most inviting fragrance and add warmth to your cookie base.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. This gradual process helps emulsify the batter for a tender dough with great structure.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, coarse sea salt, and kosher salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of leavening and seasoning.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender and soft.

Step 8: Fold in M&M’s

Gently fold 1¾ cups of M&M’s candies into the dough. This step ensures that each cookie will be dotted with mini bursts of colorful chocolatey goodness.

Step 9: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

If you can, cover and refrigerate the dough for anywhere from 1 to 24 hours. This resting time lets the flavors develop and the dough to firm up, which results in even softer, chewier cookies. But if you’re short on time, you can bake them right away and they’ll still be delicious!

Step 10: Scoop and Arrange Cookies

Use a 2-inch cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons) to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. You’ll generally get 12 cookies per sheet.

Step 11: Add Extra M&M’s on Top

Press 3 to 4 extra M&M candies into the top of each cookie dough ball. This adds an irresistible colorful, glossy finish that makes each cookie look as delightful as it tastes.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies at 350°F for about 9 minutes, just until the edges are set and slightly firm to the touch. The centers should still look soft—that’s exactly how you want them for that perfect chewiness.

Step 13: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Cooling slightly allows them to firm up just enough while staying soft inside.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies just after baking. The salt heightens the sweetness and adds a pleasant contrast to the buttery dough and chocolatey M&Ms.

Side Dishes

These cookies are a dream alongside a cold glass of milk, a creamy vanilla ice cream scoop, or even a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The soft texture and colorful crunch make them a versatile treat anytime.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies stacked on a rustic wooden board for casual gatherings, or package a few in a decorative tin tied with a ribbon for a heartwarming homemade gift. You can also sandwich softened cookies with frosting or ice cream for an indulgent twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain their soft and chewy texture, add a slice of bread to the container which helps keep the moisture in the cookies.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months by placing them on a tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover cookies as if fresh, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This little heat burst revives their softness and makes the M&Ms gooey and delicious again.

FAQs

Can I substitute butter for shortening?

Yes, but using all butter will give you a richer flavor and a little less chewiness. The shortening helps keep the cookies softer for longer. A mix of both gives you the best balance.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling isn’t required but highly recommended. It helps develop the flavor and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

Can I use different types of candy instead of M&Ms?

Absolutely! Try using Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chips, or even chopped candy bars. Just keep in mind that candies with different moisture or sugar content might affect the cookie texture slightly.

How do I make sure my cookies stay soft after baking?

Store them properly in an airtight container and include a slice of bread to trap moisture. Avoid leaving them exposed to air, which can dry them out quickly.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Definitely! Just make sure you have enough mixing space and baking sheets. Baking in batches works best for even cooking and maintaining cookie quality.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that feels like a heartfelt hug and delivers colorful fun with every bite, the Soft and Chewy M&M Cookies Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s easy to make, perfect for sharing, and brings that nostalgic joy we all need now and then. Give it a try and prepare to have a favorite cookie recipe you’ll come back to again and again!

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