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M&M Christmas Cookies: A Festive Treat

Get ready to bake up some holiday cheer with these delightful M&M Christmas Cookies! This recipe is all about creating soft, chewy cookies packed with colorful M&M’s, perfect for sharing during the festive season. We’ll start with the simple yet essential ingredients, guiding you through each step of the baking process. From creaming together the butter and sugar to achieving that perfect golden-brown edge, you’ll learn how to make cookies that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. We’ll also provide a handy recipe card and nutrition information, followed by frequently asked questions to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable. These cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Ingredients: Gather Your Festive Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This recipe uses common baking staples, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes!

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups Christmas-colored M&M’s

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Magic

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple instructions to create your own batch of M&M Christmas Cookies.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in M&M’s: Gently fold in the M&M’s. Reserve a few to press on top of the cookies before baking.
7. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still appear slightly soft.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Card: M&M Christmas Cookies

Here’s a quick reference guide for your convenience:

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Category: Dessert | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card: Cookie Stats

A little peek at the nutritional breakdown (approximate values):

Calories: 150 | Sugar: 12g | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Fiber: 0.5g | Protein: 1g | Yields: 24 cookies

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cookies

Want to take your M&M Christmas Cookies to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks:

• Soft Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, but not melted. This is crucial for achieving a soft and chewy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Even Baking: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and mix-ins. Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

FAQs: Your Burning Cookie Questions Answered

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies can be caused by several factors, including using melted butter, not measuring flour correctly, or having an oven that is not hot enough. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, measure your flour accurately (spoon and level method is recommended), and ensure your oven is properly preheated.

Can I use different types of M&M’s?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any variety of M&M’s you like. Peanut M&M’s, pretzel M&M’s, or even seasonal flavors can add a unique twist to your cookies.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading. Also, make sure your baking sheets are cool, and avoid greasing them if you’re using parchment paper.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about an hour, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2-3 months.

I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family great food is meant to be shared! Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious recipes, kitchen tips, and daily cooking inspiration, Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to bringing you even more tasty ideas straight from my kitchen.

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