Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth craving something both colorful and irresistibly chewy, these Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies are exactly what you need. Imagine rich peanut butter blended into a soft, buttery dough, studded with melty chocolate chips and bursting with vibrant M&M candies on every bite. These cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will quickly become a beloved treat for family and friends alike. Whether you’re baking for a party or just for yourself, this recipe brings uncomplicated joy with every batch of Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to create these marvelous cookies, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect flavor and texture. From the creamy peanut butter that gives richness to the pop of color and crunch from the M&Ms, every element matters.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides a rich, buttery base that makes the cookies tender and flaky.
• Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds depth and a nutty flavor that makes these cookies uniquely delicious.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens while lending a slight crispness to the cookie edges.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for chewiness.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder, ensuring all ingredients come together smoothly.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Gives structure so your cookies hold their shape but stay soft.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly for a tender crumb.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Provide little bursts of chocolate that melt perfectly.
• M&M candies (3/4 cup plus extra for topping): Add vibrant colors and a delightful candy crunch for that signature look and fun texture.

How to Make Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

Start by beating together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air that helps the cookies rise and gives them that tender bite we love in Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until they are fully blended. This adds moisture and richness, making your cookies soft and deeply flavorful. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Incorporating these dry ingredients carefully ensures your cookies have the perfect structure—soft yet sturdy enough to hold all those chocolate chips and M&Ms.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet peanut butter mixture. Stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make your cookies tough. At this point, you’re really close to cookie magic.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&Ms

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of M&Ms. This is where the fun really begins—the colorful candies will dot your dough, creating pockets of chocolate and candy crunch in every bite of your Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then press a few extra M&Ms on top of each cookie dough ball for that picture-perfect look. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Let them cool slightly before devouring!

How to Serve Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking can elevate the flavors, offering a modern twist that balances the sweetness wonderfully. You can also drizzle melted peanut butter or chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of indulgence.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of creamy coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent dessert experience. The rich peanut butter and candy crunch combine perfectly with creamy beverages and desserts.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies stacked on a colorful platter alongside fresh fruit or nut clusters for a party spread. For a fun twist, sandwich two cookies with peanut butter or chocolate ganache in between for delicious cookie sandwiches that everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain softness by retaining moisture, ensuring your Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies remain just as delightful as when freshly baked.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking or the baked cookies themselves. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen dough can be baked straight from the freezer with an extra minute or two added to the baking time, while baked cookies can last up to three months frozen.

Reheating

To revive the warm, gooey texture of your cookies, microwave them for about 10 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This little touch brings back that just-baked softness, making every bite as scrumptious as the first.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to your Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies, giving extra nutty crunch in every bite.

Are M&Ms the only candy that works in this recipe?

Not at all. While M&Ms add color and a signature touch, you can substitute with other candy-coated chocolates, Reese’s Pieces, or even chopped peanut butter cups for a twist.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

Regular-sized chocolate chips work perfectly fine. Just be mindful that larger chips might create bigger melted pockets of chocolate, which can be delicious too!

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to enjoy these treats while keeping them gluten free.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies stay fresh and tasty for about five days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting and fun about making a batch of Peanut Butter M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies, whether it’s for a special occasion or simply because you deserve a sweet treat. The combination of creamy peanut butter, melty chocolate chips, and cheerful M&M candies creates a cookie experience that delights both the eyes and the palate. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites to bake and share with those you love.

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