M&M Cookie Bites
When it comes to cookies that bring a smile to your face, M&M Cookie Bites are hard to beat. These delightful little treats are not just visually appealing with their colorful candy shells, but they also pack a flavorful punch with every bite. The combination of rich, browned butter and sweet chocolatey goodness creates a cookie experience that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual get-together, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these M&M Cookie Bites are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and get baking!
The Upside of M&M Cookie Bites
M&M Cookie Bites are more than just ordinary cookies; they are a celebration of flavor and fun. The unique texture that comes from browning the butter adds a depth of nuttiness that elevates these cookies beyond the classic recipe. The crunchy M&M Minis provide a delightful contrast to the soft, chewy texture of the cookie dough. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can easily customize them by swapping out the M&M Minis for your favorite mix-ins, or even adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combo that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 sticks (16 tablespoons; 8 ounces) unsalted butter, browned and brought back to room temperature
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups M&M Minis
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To blend the sugars and butter smoothly.
- Spatula: To fold in the M&M Minis and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Baking sheet: For placing the cookie dough before baking.
- Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cookies after baking.
Cooking M&M Cookie Bites: The Process
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by browning your unsalted butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, swirling it occasionally. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk to blend them together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in the M&M Minis
Using a spatula, gently fold in the M&M Minis until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
For the best texture, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and gives the cookies a chewy texture.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper while the dough chills.
Step 8: Scoop and Bake
Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your M&M Cookie Bites warm, or store them for later!
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
- Butter: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition, though it may affect the texture slightly.
- Eggs: For an egg substitute, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or applesauce.
- M&M Minis: Substitute with dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Ensure the butter is browned but not burnt; keep a close eye on it while it cooks.
- Allowing the dough to chill is crucial for the best texture, so don’t skip this step!
- Use a cookie scoop to keep your cookies uniform in size, which helps them bake evenly.
- Don’t overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so remove them while they are still soft in the center.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your M&M Cookie Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies. For freezing, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Baked cookies can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their deliciously chewy texture.
Common Questions
Can I use regular M&Ms instead of M&M Minis?
Yes, you can use regular M&Ms, but keep in mind they may create larger chunks in your cookies. M&M Minis are recommended for a more evenly distributed candy flavor.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Chilling the dough can also help firm it up.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
More from the Kitchen
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delightful desserts and tips.
- Pinch of Yum – Explore a variety of tasty recipes.
- Minimalist Baker – Discover simple, delicious recipes that require 10 ingredients or less.
See You at the Table
These M&M Cookie Bites are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering or moment of indulgence. The process of making these cookies is as enjoyable as eating them, filled with anticipation as the dough transforms into beautiful, colorful bites of happiness. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some memories in the kitchen with these scrumptious M&M Cookie Bites! Happy baking!
M&M Cookie Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by browning your unsalted butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, swirling it occasionally until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt to ensure even distribution.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then add vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Fold in the M&M Minis with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the best texture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper while the dough chills.
- Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!
Notes
- Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Whole wheat flour can add nutrition but may alter texture.
- Consider using flax eggs or applesauce as egg substitutes.
