Ah, cookies! Is there anything better than a warm batch of freshly baked cookies straight out of the oven? I think not! One of my all-time favorites has to be these Soft Chocolate M&M Cookies. Not only do they combine the rich, chocolaty goodness of cocoa with the cheerful crunch of M&M’s, but they also remind me of family gatherings where sweet treats and laughter filled the air. Every bite of these cookies brings back memories of loved ones huddled in the kitchen, stealing cookies before dinner was even served!
Let me tell you, the only problem I have with these cookies is trying not to eat them all in one sitting—because they’re oh-so-soft and chewy with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, you’re going to want to share them! So, if you’ve got a celebration coming up, or if you just feel like indulging yourself (like I often do), this recipe will surely be your new go-to. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special!
What’s in Soft Chocolate M&M Cookies?
Unsalted Butter: The creaminess of softened butter is what gives these cookies their delightful texture. I always use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dough yourself.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and creates that delicious chewy texture. It also provides a lovely caramel flavor that I adore!
Granulated Sugar: This helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall texture.
Eggs: These are essential for binding the cookie dough together. They also add richness and contribute to that soft texture.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have in any cookie recipe! It adds that warm, comforting flavor that elevates the entire cookie.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the main structure-building ingredient, giving our cookies that perfect chewy base.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The star player! This is what gives these cookies their deep chocolate flavor and beautiful color.
Baking Soda: A little leavening agent to give the cookies a nice lift and texture.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Because one type of chocolate is never enough! These provide little pockets of melty goodness with every bite.
M&M’s: The colorful conversation starters! Feel free to get creative with the different varieties – find your favorite mix!
Is Soft Chocolate M&M Cookies Good for You?
When it comes to cookies, moderation is key, right? While these cookies are definitely a treat, there are a few health benefits you can consider.
Whole Grains (from all-purpose flour): Thanks to the base ingredient, these cookies do provide some carbs for energy—especially before that afternoon slump!
Dark Chocolate Chips: If you opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips, you’re getting some antioxidants! Chocolate is a delightful little indulgence that can actually boost your mood. So, extra points for happiness!
However, we can’t ignore that these cookies are still a dessert, so you might want to keep an eye on how many you indulge in at once. They’re best enjoyed with a glass of milk (or your favorite non-dairy alternative) to wash them down!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup M&M’s (mix of colors)
Makes about 24 cookies.
How to Make Soft Chocolate M&M Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper—this helps make clean-up a breeze!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes; patience is key!
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to infuse all that lovely flavor.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. Keep it airy!
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—no need to overmix; your cookies will thank you!
6. Now, fold in the chocolate chips and half of the M&M’s. (We’re saving the other half for the fun part!)
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few of the reserved M&M’s into the tops of each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. They’ll continue cooking a bit after you take them out.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—if you can resist that long!
Cookie Creations and Creative Variations
– For extra gooey cookies, don’t be tempted to over-bake them! Soft is the name of the game.
– Feel free to experiment with different types of M&M’s—like peanut, crispy, or even seasonal colors for a fun twist.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add in some nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty combo that’s so in vogue.
– Don’t forget that these cookies are amazing when paired with a big glass of milk, especially cold right from the fridge!
I just can’t wait for you to try these Soft Chocolate M&M Cookies! They’re perfect for any occasion—or just because it’s a Tuesday and you deserve something sweet. So roll up those sleeves, put on your favorite music, and let’s bake something delicious. Don’t forget to share your cookie moments with me, because believe me, there’s nothing like the joy of cookies shared with friends! Enjoy!
