Peanut Butter M&M Cookies Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a cookie recipe that combines the rich creaminess of peanut butter with the playful crunch and burst of color from M&Ms, look no further than these irresistible Peanut Butter M&M Cookies. They bring together a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey notes wrapped in a soft, chewy texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredients simple and pantry-friendly makes these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies a breeze to whip up anytime. Each component adds something special—from the creamy butter that ensures tender dough, to the peanut butter that delivers decadent flavor, and of course, the vibrant M&Ms that make every cookie a joyful treat.

• 1 cup salted butter (softened at room temperature): Provides a rich, creamy base that makes cookies tender and flavorful.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (softened at room temperature): Infuses every bite with that classic peanut buttery goodness and moisture.
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and helps create a chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to a slight crispiness on the cookie edges.
• 2 whole large eggs: Bind the dough together, lending softness and structure.
• 1 egg yolk: Adds richness and chewiness to the cookie texture.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that holds everything together without weighing down the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies spread and develop a light crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a gentle lift for a soft yet firm bite.
• 1 1/2 cups peanut butter mini M&Ms (or regular M&Ms): Brings bursts of color and crunchy pops of chocolate and peanut flavor.
• 3/4 cups mini chocolate chips: Provide additional melty chocolate pockets throughout each cookie.

How to Make Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your oven is perfectly warm so that your cookies bake evenly. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy—about 2 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial because it introduces air into the dough, giving the cookies their tender texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the creamy peanut butter, pure vanilla extract, eggs, and egg yolk. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything combines smoothly. The peanut butter creates that unmistakable richness, while the eggs provide structure to hold the cookies together.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl. This even distribution of leaveners ensures your cookies rise just right, with a perfect tender crumb.

Step 5: Make the Dough

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture just right. Then, fold in the mini peanut butter M&Ms and chocolate chips to distribute those colorful, melty surprises throughout the batter.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop (about 3 tablespoons), form dough balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown. For an optional salty contrast, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt right after baking. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Garnishes

Although these cookies shine on their own, adding a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweet and peanut buttery flavors beautifully. You could also drizzle melted chocolate or a touch of peanut butter on top for an extra decadent finish when serving special guests.

Side Dishes

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies go wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, creamy vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of hot coffee or tea. The creamy beverages balance the cookie’s rich sweetness while complementing its flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make these cookies the star of your next party? Stack them with layers of peanut butter frosting for a cookie cake, or sandwich two cookies with a scoop of ice cream between for an unforgettable treat. You can also gift them in clear cellophane bags tied with a colorful ribbon for a cheerful homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and chewy while maintaining the vibrant crunch of the M&Ms.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for baking ahead of time.

Reheating

To enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, simply microwave a cookie for about 10 to 15 seconds or heat them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. This will revive their soft texture and make the chocolate pockets deliciously melty again.

FAQs

Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy in Peanut Butter M&M Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter if you want a bit more texture, but it will change the cookie’s chewiness slightly. The creamy version offers a smoother dough and a softer cookie, which is typically preferred.

Do I need to refrigerate the cookie dough before baking?

Refrigeration isn’t necessary for this recipe, but chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help the cookies keep their shape better during baking if you prefer thicker cookies.

Can I use regular M&Ms instead of peanut butter mini M&Ms?

Absolutely! Regular M&Ms work just as well and will give you bursts of milk chocolate sweetness throughout your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter and peanut butter are softened but not melted. Also, avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour. If necessary, chill the dough before baking to help maintain a thicker shape.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture consistent.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are a joyful treat that feels like a celebration in every bite. Their perfect mix of creamy peanut butter, colorful crunch, and melty chocolate is sure to brighten up any day or gathering. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch, share them with friends, and watch these cookies become your new favorite comfort food!

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