Easter M&M Cookies Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a colorful, festive treat that instantly brightens up any dessert table, look no further than this delightful Easter M&M Cookies Recipe. These cookies boast a perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and a subtle crunch from the M&M’s, making each bite an absolute joy. With just a handful of pantry staples and a splash of vibrant candy colors, you’ll create a homemade cookie that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. If you’ve been searching for a simple yet show-stopping Easter dessert, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easter M&M Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and cheerful pop of color that make these cookies irresistible.

• 1 1/2 cups flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right without becoming cakey.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter (softened): Adds rich creaminess and moisture for softness.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings a deep caramel flavor and chewy texture.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds extra sweetness and helps with cookie crispness.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the chewy center.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, fragrant aroma.
• 1 1/2 cups Easter M&M’s: Bursting with colorful candy shells that add a festive look and satisfying crunch.

How to Make Easter M&M Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is key to preventing your cookies from sticking and making clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Setting these aside helps ensure even distribution throughout the dough for perfect texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a standing mixer, beat the softened butter with both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process creates air pockets that contribute to the cookie’s lightness.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. These ingredients add moisture and richness, giving the cookies their wonderful chewiness and depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender and soft.

Step 6: Fold in Most of the Easter M&M’s

Stir in 1 cup of Easter M&M’s gently, saving the rest for decorating on top. This ensures bursts of colorful candy throughout each cookie.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape Cookies

Using a medium ice cream scoop, drop generous portions of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Lightly press each mound down to form thick disks, which helps them bake evenly.

Step 8: Add Remaining M&M’s and Bake

Sprinkle the reserved Easter M&M’s on top of each cookie to create a festive look. Bake in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges turn a gentle golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Then, get ready to enjoy one of the most cheerful, colorful treats you can bake for Easter.

How to Serve Easter M&M Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies stand out on their own with the vibrant M&M’s, consider sprinkling a pinch of coarse sea salt or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra touch of flavor and elegance. These garnishes enhance the sweetness and add visual appeal to your presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair your Easter M&M Cookies with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a classic combination. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make your dessert plate feel more decadent and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive Easter gathering, stack your cookies in a pretty jar tied with pastel ribbons or arrange them on a tiered serving tray with mini chocolate eggs scattered around. Gift-wrapping a batch in colorful cellophane bags with homemade tags is a heartfelt way to share this Easter M&M Cookies Recipe with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days while maintaining their soft texture and colorful crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper and transferring them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen solid. Bake from frozen by adding a couple more minutes to the baking time for fresh, homemade cookies anytime you want.

Reheating

To bring day-old cookies back to life, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This will soften the cookies and slightly melt the M&M’s for a truly delightful experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular M&M’s instead of Easter-themed ones?

Absolutely! Regular M&M’s work perfectly in this recipe and will yield similar texture and flavor. The Easter M&M’s just add that seasonal pop of color and fun.

Is it okay to substitute salted butter?

You can use salted butter, but reduce or omit adding extra salt to the dry ingredients to avoid an overly salty cookie.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

While this recipe calls for butter and egg, you can experiment with vegan substitutes like plant-based butter and flax eggs, but the texture and taste might differ slightly.

How soft are these cookies? Are they chewy or crispy?

This Easter M&M Cookies Recipe creates cookies that are soft and chewy with lightly crisp edges, making them a perfect balance.

Can I use other mix-ins besides M&M’s?

Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or candy pieces of your choice to make these cookies your own.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cookie recipe that’s bursting with color, flavor, and heartfelt nostalgia, this Easter M&M Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and perfectly festive for the holidays or any time you crave a cheerful treat. Roll up your sleeves and dive into this recipe—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these cookies become a beloved classic in your kitchen!

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