Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Soft and Chewy M&M’S Cookies are everything you want in a cookie—crispy edges, a tender, gooey center, and colorful bursts of chocolate candy in every bite. These cookies are perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply treating yourself. The secret to their irresistibly soft texture lies in the perfect balance of butter, brown sugar, and just the right baking time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking sodasaltunsalted buttersugarbrown sugarlarge eggsvanilla extractM&M’S candies (regular or mini)semisweet chocolate chips (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Fold in M&M’S and chocolate chips if using.

Scoop dough into balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use peanut butter or crispy M&M’S for a flavor twist.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Swap half the flour for rolled oats for a chewy oat version.
Use holiday-themed M&M’S for festive occasions.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To keep them extra soft, add a slice of bread to the container.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour if desired.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your butter isn’t too warm, and don’t overmix the dough.

Can I make these with mini M&M’S?
Absolutely! Mini M&M’S distribute more evenly throughout the cookie.

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, scoop into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Store in a freezer bag and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.

What makes these cookies soft and chewy?
The combination of brown sugar, butter, and slightly underbaking keeps them moist and chewy.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Do I need to use both brown and white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, while white sugar gives structure and crisp edges.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The colorful M&M’S make them a favorite with kids and adults alike.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well for larger batches.

Conclusion

The Best Soft and Chewy M&M’S Cookies are a fun, colorful treat that everyone will love. With their buttery flavor, tender centers, and candy crunch, they’re sure to become your go-to cookie recipe for any occasion. Bake a batch today and watch them disappear in minutes!