Name: Chewy M&M Cookie Bites-Quick & Easy Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: Approximately 3-4 dozen bites
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp sea salt; 2 sticks (16 tbsp) unsalted butter, browned and cooled; 1 cup + 2 tbsp dark brown sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; 3 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 cups mini M&Ms

M&M Cookie Bites, those delightful little explosions of sweet, chewy goodness, are an absolute classic for a reason. Imagine the sheer joy of biting into a perfectly baked, slightly crisp-edged cookie that yields to a wonderfully soft center, studded with those iconic, colorful candy gems. It’s no wonder everyone, from little ones with sticky fingers to adults seeking a nostalgic treat, gravitates towards these irresistible morsels. What truly sets these M&M Cookie Bites apart is their perfect balance: not too sweet, not too cakey, and just the right amount of chewy texture. They are the ultimate portable indulgence, perfect for sharing (or not!), and guaranteed to brighten any day. Get ready to experience pure cookie bliss as we dive into how to create these phenomenal M&M Cookie Bites right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp sea salt
2 sticks (16 tbsp) unsalted butter, browned and cooled
1 cup + 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups mini M&Ms

M&M Cookie Bites Preparation

Step 1: Combining the Dry Ingredients

First things first, we need to get our dry ingredients ready. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Whisking them thoroughly ensures that the leavening agent (baking soda) and the salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This is crucial for consistent texture and rise in your M&M Cookie Bites. Don’t skip this step; it lays the foundation for perfectly baked cookies! Once everything is well combined, set this bowl aside for now.

Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugars

Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add your 2 sticks (which is equivalent to 16 tablespoons) of unsalted butter that you’ve previously browned and cooled. Browning the butter adds a wonderful nutty depth of flavor that elevates these M&M Cookie Bites beyond the ordinary. It’s important that the butter is completely cooled to room temperature before proceeding; if it’s too warm, it can melt the sugars too quickly and result in a greasy dough. Add the 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of dark brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar to the bowl with the cooled browned butter. Cream these together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which contributes to a tender cookie. Scrape down the sides of the bowl a couple of times during creaming to ensure everything is incorporated smoothly. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes of beating.

Step 3: Incorporating Wet Ingredients

With the butter and sugar mixture beautifully creamed, it’s time to add the rest of our wet ingredients. Add the 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the bowl. The vanilla is essential for adding that classic cookie aroma and flavor that pairs so well with the M&Ms. Next, crack in your 2 large eggs, which should be at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the fat and sugar, creating a smoother, more homogenous dough. Beat the mixture on medium speed until the eggs are fully incorporated and the batter looks smooth and well combined. Again, make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure no pockets of unincorporated egg or sugar remain.

Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now for the magic that brings our M&M Cookie Bites together! Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture (from Step 1) to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to tough cookies. You want to mix only until you no longer see streaks of flour. A few small streaks are okay, as they will disappear during the next step and when the M&Ms are added.

Step 5: Folding in the M&Ms and Chilling the Dough

This is where the fun really begins! Gently fold in the 2 cups of mini M&Ms using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough. Once the M&Ms are incorporated, it’s highly recommended to chill the dough. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the flavors to meld, which results in a chewier cookie with a richer taste. It also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring you get those lovely, bite-sized M&M Cookie Bites.

Step 6: Baking Your M&M Cookie Bites

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Once the dough is chilled, use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) to portion out the dough. Roll the dough into balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. You don’t need to flatten them; they will spread slightly on their own. Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to bake slightly on the hot baking sheet after you remove them from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious homemade M&M Cookie Bites!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! You’ve just unlocked the secret to creating delightful M&M Cookie Bites that are sure to be a hit with everyone, young and old. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon snack to a festive party platter. The wonderful thing about these M&M Cookie Bites is their versatility. They’re fantastic on their own, of course, but they also pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of coffee, or even as a fun addition to ice cream sundaes. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own variations! Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast, or even mixing in some mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey punch. The possibilities are truly endless, and the joy of baking these is immeasurable. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the sheer deliciousness of homemade M&M Cookie Bites for yourself. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How should I store my M&M Cookie Bites to keep them fresh?

A: To maintain the freshness of your M&M Cookie Bites, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay deliciously soft and chewy for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Q: Can I use different kinds of M&Ms?

A: Absolutely! While classic M&Ms are a favorite, feel free to experiment with peanut M&Ms, caramel M&Ms, or even seasonal M&Ms to add a unique twist to your M&M Cookie Bites. Just ensure they are small enough to distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough.