Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you are craving a cookie that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of M&M candies and the classic delight of chocolate chips, then these Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and texture, making them irresistibly addictive and a guaranteed hit whether for a casual snack or a festive treat. You’ll love how the peanut butter keeps these cookies soft and chewy while the chocolate and candy pieces add bursts of fun and indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays an essential role in creating cookies that are soft, rich, and delightfully colorful. From creamy peanut butter to crunchy M&Ms, these simple pantry staples come together to make magic happen.

• Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup: Provides richness and tenderness for the perfect cookie texture.
• Creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup: Adds depth of flavor and chewiness that’s simply irresistible.
• Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Sweetens the dough and helps create that light golden edge.
• Packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note to the cookie.
• Large egg, 1: Binds everything together and adds a hint of richness.
• Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Enhances all the flavors with its warm aromatic touch.
• All-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups: The base that gives structure to the cookies.
• Baking soda, 1/2 tsp: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft, chewy bite.
• Salt, 1/4 tsp: Balances sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter flavor.
• Mini chocolate chips, 1/2 cup: Bit-sized bursts of gooey chocolate goodness in every bite.
• M&M candies, 3/4 cup plus extra for topping: Adds bright color and a satisfying crunch with a signature chocolate surprise inside.

How to Make Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prep ensures your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process aerates the mixture, helping to give the cookies a tender crumb and rich flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg followed by the vanilla extract until everything is well combined. These ingredients add moisture and a lovely fragrance that enhances the cookie’s overall profile.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Sifting or whisking prevents any lumps and ensures your cookies have a perfectly smooth texture without any unpleasant surprises.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can toughen the dough, so stir just until everything comes together.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M Candies

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of M&M candies. These little bursts of chocolate and color are what make these cookies truly special and fun to eat.

Step 7: Shape and Top the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Press a few extra M&Ms on top of each ball for that gorgeous bakery-style look that makes you want to dive right in.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden and the centers look set but still soft. Remember, these cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set completely before transferring them to a wire rack. This step ensures they hold their shape and texture perfectly, ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a few extra M&Ms on top right after baking while cookies are still warm. You can also dust a pinch of powdered sugar or drizzle melted peanut butter and chocolate for a decadent finish that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee for a delightful snack. Serve alongside some fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels special and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies in a clear glass cookie jar for a colorful centerpiece at parties, or place them on a decorative plate with festive napkins for gift-giving. Wrapping a few in cellophane tied with a ribbon makes a sweet homemade gift to brighten anyone’s day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their charming look.

Freezing

If you want to save some of these tasty treats for later, freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. You can also freeze baked cookies by wrapping them well; just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm your cookies in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to revive that freshly baked softness. Alternatively, use an oven set at 300°F for 5 minutes to regain crisp edges and melty centers without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture, creating delightful little peanut bits throughout your cookies, which many love for added crunch.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

You can substitute regular-size chocolate chips, but reduce the amount slightly to prevent the cookies from becoming too chocolate-heavy and unbalanced.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough together.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) in place of the large egg. Also, check that your M&Ms and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.

Why do my cookies turn out flat?

Make sure your baking soda is fresh and not expired, and avoid overmixing the dough. Also, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, once you try these Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again. They have the perfect blend of comfort and fun that brings joy to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, grab your mixing bowl, and enjoy this delightful baking adventure—you’ll be rewarded with cookies that everyone will rave about!

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