Chocolate M&M Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate M&M Cookies are a colorful, fun twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, loaded with crunchy, candy-coated M&M chocolates. Their chewy centers, crisp edges, and bursts of milk chocolate make them a crowd-pleasing treat for both kids and adults. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a vibrant snack, these cookies bring joy and color to every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter (softened)granulated sugarspacked brown sugareggsvanilla extractall-purpose flourbaking sodasaltunsweetened cocoapowdered chocolateregular M&Ms (plus extra for topping)mini chocolate chips (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, powdered chocolate, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Fold in M&Ms and mini chocolate chips.

Scoop the dough into balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.

Press a few extra M&Ms on top of each dough ball for a colorful finish.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use peanut or caramel M&Ms for a flavor twist.

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty balance.

Swap half of the M&Ms with chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Try white or dark chocolate M&Ms for variety.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use mini M&Ms instead of regular ones?

Yes, mini M&Ms distribute more evenly and work great in this recipe.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is optional, but it helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

Can I use cocoa powder alone?

Yes, but adding powdered chocolate boosts richness and depth.

Why are my cookies dry?

Be careful not to overbake, and measure flour correctly to avoid dryness.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes, the M&Ms alone provide plenty of chocolate flavor.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

They are sweet and rich, but the cocoa and slight salt balance the flavors well.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just make sure to mix thoroughly and bake in batches.

Are these good for gift baskets?

Yes, they’re festive, colorful, and stay fresh for several days.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine works in a pinch.

Conclusion

Chocolate M&M Cookies offer the perfect blend of classic cookie comfort and colorful candy fun. Whether you’re baking them for a celebration or a cozy night in, their chewy texture and chocolatey crunch will win over every sweet tooth. Easy to make and hard to resist, they’re a deliciously playful addition to any cookie jar.

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