Thick and Chewy M\&M Cookies Recipe

If you crave bakery-style cookies bursting with chocolate candies and that irresistible soft center, you need to make these Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies. This is my go-to recipe when I want to impress friends or satisfy an afternoon sweet tooth. Every bite is chewy, colorful, and loaded with melty chocolate—the kind of cookie that instantly brings out the kid in everyone. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies rely on simple pantry staples, but choosing quality ingredients is what makes each bite unforgettable. Here’s how every component brings its own magic to the mix for picture-perfect Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of these cookies, providing structure without turning them cakey.
• Baking soda: Just half a teaspoon gives the cookies their gentle rise and lovely texture.
• Salt: A must for balancing the sweetness and making the chocolate candies pop.
• Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Melted butter is the secret to an extra chewy center—don’t skip cooling it a little!
• Brown sugar (packed): Adding moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor that sets these cookies apart.
• Granulated sugar: Contributes sweetness and helps with those crispy edges.
• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk: The extra yolk makes the dough richer and chewier—trust the science on this one.
• Vanilla extract: A generous splash (or two teaspoons!) for warm, nostalgic flavor.
• M&M candies: You’ll want at least 1 1/2 cups for that classic look, plus a few extra to press on top.
• Semisweet chocolate chips (optional): Totally your call, but the extra chocolate makes these even more decadent!

How to Make Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This setup prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures their edges stay perfectly golden without burning. Using parchment also makes cleaning up a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This quick step evenly distributes the leavening and seasoning, so every bite gets just the right amount of lift and flavor. Set this bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Make the Buttery Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and slightly cooled butter with both the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is glossy and fully blended—the brown sugar especially helps keep the cookies moist and chewy.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in one large egg plus an extra yolk, and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. The extra yolk is your ticket to truly Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies, adding richness and that signature soft texture.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overworking the dough can make cookies tough instead of tender and chewy!

Step 6: Fold In the Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the M&M candies and chocolate chips (if you’re using them). Every scoop should be generously dotted with colorful candies and melty chocolate so each cookie is as fun as it is delicious.

Step 7: Shape and Decorate the Cookies

Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and arrange on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches between each for spreading. For that true bakery look, press a few extra M&Ms into the top of each dough ball—this not only looks gorgeous but gives you bonus candy in every bite!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide those trays into the oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, just until the edges turn lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring to a wire rack. Waiting is hard, but it’s worth it for perfect cookies!

How to Serve Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies

Garnishes

A little extra color goes a long way! Sprinkle a few more M&Ms over the cookies while they’re still warm for extra vibrancy. If you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of melted white chocolate makes every batch look like it came from a boutique bakery.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats the classic combo of cookies and milk, but try serving these Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extraordinary treat. You can also pair them with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a festive gift, or arrange them on a bright platter for parties. Make ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite flavor between two cookies—it’s fun, colorful, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cookies left (hard to believe!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

For ultimate convenience, freeze unbaked dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag and stash them in your freezer for up to three months. When the craving hits, bake straight from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the oven time. Baked cookies freeze beautifully as well; let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

To restore that “fresh from the oven” magic, warm a cookie in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. It revives the gooey center and soft texture. Enjoy with a mug of milk or coffee for instant comfort!

FAQs

Can I substitute the M&Ms for other candies or mix-ins?

Absolutely! While colorful M&Ms are classic, feel free to get creative. Try peanut butter chips, crushed pretzels, or even chopped candy bars for your own unique twist on Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies.

Why do I need to use both an egg and an extra yolk?

The combination provides just enough moisture and fat for soft, chewy cookies. The single yolk intensifies the richness, taking these cookies well beyond your basic chocolate chip variety.

Should I chill the dough before baking?

If you like your cookies extra thick, a 30-minute chill in the fridge is a great trick. It prevents too much spreading, resulting in a taller, chewier cookie that really stands up to the M&M candies.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper helps ensure even baking and prevents the cookies from sticking, plus it makes cleanup a snap. If you’re out of parchment, a silicone baking mat or a well-greased baking sheet will do in a pinch.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing that soft, chewy bite.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake these Thick and Chewy M&M Cookies as I am to share the recipe with you. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or just to add a little color to an ordinary day, these cookies always deliver on happiness and flavor. Don’t wait—preheat your oven, grab a bag of M&Ms, and treat yourself to a batch of pure cookie joy!

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