Peanut Butter M&M Cookies: A Delicious Treat for All Ages

Who doesn’t love cookies? And when you combine the rich taste of peanut butter with the colorful and chocolaty goodness of M&M’s, you have a match made in cookie heaven. These Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a sweet indulgence for yourself. Let’s dive into the world of baking and create these mouthwatering cookies together!

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Additions:

• 1 ½ cups Peanut Butter M&M’s

Steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. The creamy mixture will create a base for our cookies.

Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter, Eggs, and Vanilla Extract

Once the butter and sugars are well combined, add the creamy peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough should be soft and pliable.

Step 6: Fold in the Peanut Butter M&M’s

Gently fold in the Peanut Butter M&M’s, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add a burst of color and flavor to your cookies.

Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can also roll the dough into balls and flatten them slightly with the palm of your hand. This will give the cookies a nice shape and ensure even baking.

Step 8: Bake and Enjoy!

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still look slightly undercooked, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations:

While Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are delicious on their own, you can always get creative and try different variations to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

1. Chocolate Lovers:

If you’re a chocoholic, you can add a cup of chocolate chips to the cookie dough along with the Peanut Butter M&M’s. This will give you an extra chocolatey kick with every bite.

2. Nutty Twist:

If you enjoy the crunch of nuts in your cookies, try adding a half cup of chopped peanuts or your favorite nuts to the dough. The combination of peanuts, peanut butter, and M&M’s will create a delightful texture.

3. Gluten-Free Option:

If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Tips:

To make your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies the best they can be, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Softened Butter:

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will help create a creamy texture in the dough and ensure even mixing.

2. Room Temperature Eggs:

Using room temperature eggs will help them blend more easily with the other ingredients. You can quickly bring cold eggs to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.

3. Don’t Overmix:

Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a tender and chewy texture.

4. Proper Storage:

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage.

Conclusion:

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a chewy and colorful cookie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to please everyone. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Happy baking!

FAQs:

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

A: Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter to add an extra crunch to your cookies. However, keep in mind that the texture and spread of the cookies may be slightly different.

Q: Can I use a different type of M&M’s?

A: Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of M&M’s, such as caramel, pretzel, or even mint. Just make sure the quantity remains the same.

Q: Can I make the dough in advance and refrigerate it?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and result in a richer taste. Just make sure to let the dough come to room temperature before baking.

Q: Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute?

A: While it is possible to use a sugar substitute, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and taste of the cookies. It’s best to follow the recipe as closely as possible for optimal results.