If you’re searching for the perfect bite-sized treat that combines nostalgia, color, and irresistible flavor, look no further than these Mini M&M Cookies. They’re the definition of fun: delightfully soft and chewy, bursting with pops of chocolate from the iconic colorful candies, and easy enough for even a beginner baker to master. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a party, or simply craving something sweet and joyful, these cookies are guaranteed to lift your spirits and satisfy every craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mini M&M Cookies is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Each component brings something important to the table—richness, chew, sweetness, and, of course, a playful crunch of Mini M&M’s that make these cookies stand out in a crowd.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Makes the cookies tender and gives that classic homemade flavor. Be sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create crisp edges.
- Packed brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings moisture and a hint of caramel, keeping the centers chewy.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together for structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and brings warm undertones to the dough.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the backbone of the cookies, creating the perfect texture.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Aids in leavening, ensuring slight puffiness and tender crumb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors forward.
- Mini M&M’s (3/4 cup, plus extra for topping): The stars of the show—these add irresistible color, crunch, and chocolatey joy to every bite.
How to Make Mini M&M Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, then line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Not only does this prevent sticking, but it also makes cleanup a breeze. Get your ingredients measured out now for the smoothest baking experience.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, whip together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for that signature cookie texture. A hand mixer makes this part extra easy, but a sturdy spoon works too with a bit of elbow grease!
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until your wet mixture is thoroughly blended. You’ll notice the dough becoming silky and light—this extra mixing helps create a soft, tender crumb in the final cookies.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed, which means the cookies will bake up evenly every time.
Step 5: Make the Cookie Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix; stop as soon as the last streaks of flour disappear, so your Mini M&M Cookies stay soft and tender.
Step 6: Fold in the Mini M&M’s
Gently stir in the Mini M&M’s, reserving a small handful for topping later. Don’t be shy—make sure you get a colorful mix in every spoonful of dough! This is the step where the magic happens, and it’s always a delight to see the dough speckled with those vibrant candies.
Step 7: Portion and Decorate
Scoop out the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. For a picture-perfect finish, press a few extra Mini M&M’s on top of each dough ball. Not only do they look bakery-worthy, but every cookie gets a double shot of fun!
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies might look a tiny bit underdone in the very center, but they’ll finish setting up as they cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—the wait will be worth it!
How to Serve Mini M&M Cookies
Garnishes
One of the best things about Mini M&M Cookies is how easy they are to dress up. For a real show-stopping finish, gently press a few extra M&M’s into the tops of your cookies right after they come out of the oven. You can even add a pinch of flaky sea salt if you love a salty-sweet combination—trust me, it’s a game changer.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfectly delightful all on their own, but if you’re setting up for a gathering or dessert tray, consider pairing them with a cool glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit for balance. Kids and grown-ups alike can’t resist dunking them in milk for that classic cookie experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, stack the cookies in a clear jar tied with a ribbon, or pile them high on a tiered platter with other colorful treats. You can also wrap a few Mini M&M Cookies in a cellophane bag for quick and cheerful homemade edible gifts—perfect for teachers, friends, or just-because surprises!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Mini M&M Cookies keep their soft, chewy texture for days if stored properly! Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Add a slice of bread to the container if you want to ward off staleness—the cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread and stay absolutely perfect.
Freezing
Mini M&M Cookies are a freezer’s best friend. Freeze the baked cookies on a tray until solid, then transfer to an airtight bag. They’ll last up to three months, ready to satisfy cookie cravings at a moment’s notice! For even fresher results, you can also freeze the portioned dough and bake off just what you need, whenever you want warm, gooey cookies.
Reheating
If you love your cookies extra soft and warm, pop a frozen Mini M&M Cookie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or let it thaw at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Nothing beats the aroma of a just-baked cookie, even if it’s a quick reheat straight from the freezer!
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized M&M’s instead of mini ones?
Absolutely! While Mini M&M Cookies get their burst of color and candy in every bite thanks to the minis, regular-sized M&M’s will still give you delicious results. Feel free to chop them slightly if you prefer more even distribution.
Can I double this recipe for a big batch?
Yes, doubling works beautifully and is perfect for parties or bake sales. Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches, and watch your family and friends quickly enjoy every last cookie!
What’s the best way to make the cookies bakery-style?
For that irresistible bakery look, save some Mini M&M’s to press onto the tops of the cookies right after portioning the dough, and again just after baking while they’re still warm. This ensures every cookie is loaded with bright, colorful candies on top.
Can I make Mini M&M Cookies dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Make and portion the dough balls, then chill for up to two days, or freeze them for longer. When ready to bake, let chilled dough sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or bake frozen dough with an extra minute added to the baking time.
Are Mini M&M Cookies suitable for gifting?
Without a doubt! Their cheery appearance and sturdy texture make them ideal for packaging up in cute bags or boxes. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or a simple pick-me-up for a friend, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles.
Final Thoughts
Mini M&M Cookies are the kind of treat that never fails to delight, no matter your age or the occasion. They come together quickly, taste fantastic, and bring a pop of happiness to any table. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you just might find yourself baking another batch sooner than you think!
Print
Mini M&M Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini M&M Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful mini M&M’s in every bite. A simple and delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mini M&M’s (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in M&M’s: Gently fold in the mini M&M’s.
- Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, press a few extra M&M’s on top of each dough ball, and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Notes:
- For a bakery-style look, gently press extra M&M’s into the cookies right after baking.
- These cookies freeze well—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
