Are you looking to elevate your cookie game with a fun, delicious, and easy recipe? Look no further than Peanut Butter M&M Cookies! These cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of M&M candies, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply want to indulge in a sweet snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Read on to discover how to make these delightful cookies and why they are a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter – The heart of these cookies, providing a rich and smooth peanut flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and to help the cookies spread properly.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds a touch of moisture.
- 1/2 cup M&M candies – Adds a burst of color and a crunchy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become soft and chewy.
- A pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.
- Add Baking Soda and Salt: Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt, mixing until fully incorporated into the dough.
- Fold in M&Ms: Gently fold in the M&M candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form Cookies: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of the spoon to help them bake evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers might look slightly soft, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Peanut Butter M&M Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter M&M Cookies:
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy M&Ms creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and nutty, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Fun and Festive: The colorful M&Ms add a fun twist to classic peanut butter cookies, making them ideal for holiday celebrations, birthday parties, or just a treat for yourself.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies have a soft, chewy center with slightly crisp edges, making them the perfect texture for a satisfying snack.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter M&M Cookies:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and egg are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Do Not Over-Bake: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. Over-baking can lead to dry cookies.
- Customize Your M&Ms: Feel free to use different colors or types of M&Ms to match the occasion or your personal preference.
Enjoy baking and sharing these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies with family and friends. Their delightful taste and festive appearance are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Happy baking!
Serving and Storage Tips for Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
Serving Tips:
- Optimal Freshness: For the best flavor and texture, serve these cookies slightly warm. The peanut butter will be creamy, and the M&Ms will still have a bit of their colorful sheen.
- Presentation: Arrange your cookies on a decorative plate or platter. Garnish with a few extra M&Ms on top for a visually appealing touch.
- Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Portion Control: If serving at a party or gathering, consider using cookie tongs or a small serving spoon to help guests easily grab their treat without having to handle the cookies directly.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their soft, chewy texture and prevent them from becoming stale.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the cookies to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, and they can be stored for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave the cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
- Cookie Dough Storage: If you want to bake a fresh batch on demand, you can also freeze the cookie dough. Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
- Avoid Overlapping: When storing cookies, especially if you stack them, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies stay fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever you like!
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit more texture in your cookies. Crunchy peanut butter will add extra bits of peanuts to the cookie dough, giving the cookies a delightful crunch. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the texture of the final cookie.
2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Peanut Butter M&M Cookies gluten-free, ensure that the M&Ms you use are certified gluten-free. Additionally, use a gluten-free baking blend or a combination of gluten-free flours (like almond flour or coconut flour) in place of regular all-purpose flour. Since this recipe doesn’t call for flour, it is naturally gluten-free if you use the right M&Ms.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough into individual cookie-sized portions and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer the frozen dough balls to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. You can bake them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
4. How can I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?
To ensure your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies remain soft and chewy, avoid over-baking them. The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Also, make sure you use creamy peanut butter and store the cookies properly in an airtight container to maintain their softness.