Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the vibrant sweetness of M&M candies, look no further than these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies. They are soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, a holiday, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are certain to delight.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of creamy peanut butter and colorful M&Ms not only appeals to kids but also to adults who appreciate a nostalgic flavor. Their chewy texture, coupled with the crunch of the M&M candies, creates a satisfying cookie experience that is hard to resist. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and richness, these cookies are bound to be a hit at parties, school events, or simply enjoyed with a glass of milk at home.
Ingredient Notes
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup or 113g): Softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (3/4 cup or 213g): Adds richness and flavor; opt for a natural variety for a more authentic taste.
- Light Brown Sugar (3/4 cup or 138g): Packed to ensure moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup or 50g): Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon or 5ml): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Large Egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
- Milk (1 tablespoon or 15ml): Adds moisture to the dough.
- Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon or 3g): Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups or 248g): The base of the cookie dough, providing structure.
- M&Ms (1 1/2 cups): Choose any flavor to add a pop of color and sweetness to your cookies.
Appliances & Accessories
- Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl for mixing ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: For easy creaming of butter, peanut butter, and sugars.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is key to baking success.
- Baking Sheet: A flat sheet for placing cookies to bake evenly.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling cookies after baking.
Peanut Butter M&M Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Sugars and Vanilla
Add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
Step 5: Incorporate the Egg and Milk
Crack in the large egg and pour in the milk. Mix until everything is fully combined.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 7: Fold in the M&Ms
Gently fold in the M&Ms, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before indulging.
Holiday-Friendly Variations
- Red and Green M&Ms: Perfect for Christmas, using seasonal colors adds festivity.
- Chocolate Chip Addition: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Peanut Butter Swirls: Add dollops of peanut butter on top of the dough before baking for a decorative touch.
- Nutty Mix-Ins: Incorporate chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts for added crunch.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Incorrect Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet to prevent them from falling apart.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly calibrated to avoid underbaking or burning.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Peanut Butter M&M Cookies can easily be frozen for later enjoyment. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature, or for a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Ask & Learn
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture, but it may alter the smoothness of the cookies slightly.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe.
Can I substitute the M&Ms with something else?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chocolate chips, chopped chocolate bars, or even dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Ready, Set, Cook
Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible Peanut Butter M&M Cookies. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to win over hearts, whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful blend of creamy peanut butter and the sweet crunch of M&Ms, making this cookie an instant classic.
The joy of baking these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies lies not only in their deliciousness but also in the memories created while making them. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of baking cookies fill your kitchen. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
- Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Step 3: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Add Sugars and Vanilla. Add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Step 5: Incorporate the Egg and Milk. Crack in the large egg and pour in the milk. Mix until everything is fully combined.
- Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 7: Fold in the M&Ms. Gently fold in the M&Ms, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Step 8: Scoop the Dough. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Step 9: Bake the Cookies. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Step 10: Cool and Enjoy. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before indulging.
Notes
- For a festive touch, use red and green M&Ms during the holidays.
- Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
