M&M Cookie Bites

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s bound to delight both kids and adults alike, then look no further than these scrumptious M&M Cookie Bites! These little morsels are packed with color, flavor, and a chewy texture that simply begs for a glass of milk. Perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or just because, these cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

M&M Cookie Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, who can resist the allure of those vibrant, chocolate-filled candies? They add a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to every bite. Additionally, the combination of brown sugar and butter creates a rich, caramel-like flavor that elevates these cookies beyond your average chocolate chip. The chewy texture paired with the little bursts of chocolate makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving them at a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cookie bites are sure to win hearts.

What Goes In

To create these M&M Cookie Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 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
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups M&M minis

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring that these cookie bites turn out perfectly, from the rich buttery flavor to the sweet chocolatey surprises.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To whip up these delectable M&M Cookie Bites, you will need the following tools:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To make mixing easier and more efficient.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the cookies; make sure it’s lined with parchment paper.
• Cookie Scoop: To ensure even cookie sizes.
• Cooling Rack: For letting the cookies cool after baking.

Having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step: M&M Cookie Bites

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the browned butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in M&M Minis

Gently fold in the M&M minis, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your M&M Cookie Bites warm or at room temperature!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding one of these seasonal flavor boosts to your M&M Cookie Bites:

• Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for an added crunch.
• Substitute half of the M&M minis with chocolate chips for a double chocolate treat.
• Use seasonal M&M candies (like pumpkin spice or peppermint) for a festive touch.

These variations can help customize your cookie bites to match any occasion or personal preference.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

Baking is an art, and even seasoned bakers can encounter a few hiccups. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Not cooling the butter: Using hot butter can lead to overly flat cookies. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
• Incorrect oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your cookies bake perfectly.
• Skipping the cooling time: Let the cookies cool on the sheet to firm up before moving them to a rack.

By being mindful of these points, you can achieve the perfect M&M Cookie Bites every time.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to enjoy M&M Cookie Bites at a later date, they freeze beautifully! Here are some tips:

• Cookie Dough: Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freeze in a single layer. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

This makes it easy to have fresh cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Quick Questions

Can I use regular-sized M&Ms instead of M&M minis?

Absolutely! Just be aware that using regular-sized M&Ms will result in a different texture and size for your cookie bites.

What can I substitute for brown sugar if I don’t have any?

You can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of granulated sugar) to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar.

How should I store leftover M&M Cookie Bites?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just ensure that it contains xanthan gum or add it separately as needed.

If you’re looking for more quick and easy recipes, check out these links for inspiration:

These recipes are perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and a detailed recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and whip up a batch of M&M Cookie Bites. You won’t regret it, and neither will your family and friends. These cookies are sure to become a favorite, so enjoy every delicious bite!