These festive m&m Christmas cookies are a delightful treat to share with family and friends. With a perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, these cookies are packed with bursts of red and green m&m's and rich semisweet chocolate chips, making them a must-have for any holiday celebration.
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Golden syrup might be unfamiliar to some; it's a thick, amber-colored form of inverted sugar syrup. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you can substitute with light corn syrup or honey. Ensure you have pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, and don't forget to pick up festive red and green m&m's for that holiday touch.
Ingredients for M&M Christmas Cookies
Butter: Provides richness and helps achieve that perfect cookie texture.
Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper, caramel flavor to the cookies.
Granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps them spread properly.
Golden syrup: Adds a slight butterscotch flavor and keeps the cookies chewy.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
All purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Red and green m&m's: Adds festive color and a crunchy texture to the cookies.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Provides rich chocolatey bursts throughout the cookies.
One reader, Dacey Mclain says:
These M&M Christmas cookies are fantastic! The perfect blend of crispy edges and chewy centers, with festive red and green M&Ms adding a delightful touch. Easy to make and absolutely delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Techniques Required for Perfect M&M Cookies
How to melt butter: Microwave the butter for about 30 seconds to just barely melt it, ensuring it is half-soft and half-melted. How to beat butter and sugar: Beat the butter with the brown and white sugars until creamy and pale in color, ensuring the sugar has dissolved. How to mix wet ingredients: Pour in the syrup, vanilla, and egg, and lightly beat until just mixed through. How to combine dry ingredients: Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until combined. How to adjust dough consistency: If needed, add in one tablespoon of the extra flour at a time until the dough is still soft but easy to handle and firm enough to form one large ball. How to fold in mix-ins: Fold in half of the chocolate chips and M&M's with hands. How to scoop cookie dough: Scoop out 18 to 20 balls and arrange them on a lined baking sheet with parchment paper. How to press candies onto cookies: Press the remaining candies onto the tops of each cookie. How to bake cookies: Bake for about 10 to 11 minutes until the cookies are golden around the edges but still pale and puffed up. How to cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes.
How To Make M&M Cookies (Christmas Cookies)
Soft, slightly chewy, and buttery edges, these colorful Christmas M&M cookies are worth the holiday cheat day (or week? *wink*).
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupstick butter,melted, not spreadable
- ½cuplight brown sugar,packed
- ¼cupgranulated white sugar,or a granulated sweetener that measures 1:1 with sugar
- 2tbspgolden syrup,or coconut syrup, agave, rice malt syrup, maple syrup or honey may be substituted
- 2tbsppure vanilla extract
- 1egg
- 1½cupsall purpose flour,or plain flour, scooped and levelled – add more as needed – only up to ¼ cup extra
- ¼tspbaking soda
- ⅓tspsalt
- 1cupred and green m&m’s,divided
- 1cupsemisweet chocolate chips,dark or milk chocolates can be used
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 175 degrees C or 350 degrees F. Microwave the butter for about 30 seconds to just barely melt it (half-soft and half-melted).
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Beat the butter with the brown and white sugars until creamy and pale in colour and sugar has dissolved. Pour in the syrup, vanilla and the egg, and lightly beat until just mixed through.
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Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until combined.
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If needed, add in one tablespoon of the ‘extra’ flour at a time until the dough is still soft but easy to handle and firm enough to form one large ball. The dough should not be dry. Too much flour will create cakey cookies instead of crispy cookies.
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Fold in half of the chocolate chips and M&M’s with hands.
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Scoop out 18 to 20 balls and arrange them on a lined baking sheet with parchment paper. Press the remaining candies onto the tops of each cookie.
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Bake for about 10 to 11 minutes. The cookies will look pale and puffed up but should be golden around the edges. Do not overbake or your cookies will become hard once they have cooled.
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Allow to cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 204.15kcal
- Fat: 9.69g
- Saturated Fat: 5.89g
- Trans Fat: 0.20g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.68g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.43g
- Carbohydrates: 28.00g
- Fiber: 1.05g
- Sugar: 17.55g
- Protein: 2.11g
- Cholesterol: 21.66mg
- Sodium: 68.23mg
- Calcium: 21.32mg
- Potassium: 81.14mg
- Iron: 0.90mg
- Vitamin A: 48.08µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Crucial Technique for Achieving the Best M&M Cookies
To achieve the perfect texture for your cookies, make sure to only melt the butter halfway. This creates a balance between the creamed and melted butter, resulting in a dough that spreads just the right amount during baking. Additionally, when folding in the chocolate chips and m&m's, use your hands to ensure even distribution without overworking the dough.
Time-Saving Tips for Making M&M Cookies
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to save time during the baking process.
Soften butter quickly: Cut butter into small pieces to soften it faster instead of microwaving.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can speed up the process of creaming butter and sugar.
Chill dough: If the dough is too soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Batch baking: Use multiple baking sheets to bake more cookies at once, reducing overall baking time.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing the ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For M&M Cookies (Christmas Cookies) Recipe
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter in most baking recipes, providing a similar texture and moisture content.
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, which can add a richer flavor to the cookies.
granulated white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and can add a slight caramel flavor to the cookies.
golden syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a different but complementary flavor to the cookies.
egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) can be used as a vegan alternative to a regular egg.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cookies denser.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder as a substitute for baking soda, but note that it may slightly alter the texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
red and green m&m's - Substitute with chopped red and green candy-coated chocolates: These can provide a similar look and taste if m&m's are not available.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Dark chocolate chunks can add a richer, more intense chocolate flavor to the cookies.
How to Beautifully Present These Festive Cookies
Serve smaller portion sizes: Create smaller, bite-sized cookies to ensure a refined and elegant presentation. This allows for a more delicate and sophisticated tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish each cookie with a few extra red and green m&m's and a light dusting of powdered sugar to evoke a festive holiday spirit.
Plate on a stylish dish: Use a sleek, white porcelain plate to contrast with the vibrant colors of the m&m's and chocolate chips. This will make the cookies stand out visually.
Add a festive touch: Place a small sprig of fresh mint or a decorative candy cane next to the cookies to enhance the Christmas theme.
Create height: Stack the cookies in a pyramid shape to add dimension and visual interest to the plate. This technique also makes the presentation more dynamic.
Incorporate texture: Serve the cookies with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to add a creamy texture contrast to the crunchy cookies.
Use a sauce drizzle: Drizzle a light chocolate sauce or caramel sauce artistically around the plate to add a touch of elegance and additional flavor.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few whole m&m's and chocolate chips around the plate to showcase the key ingredients used in the cookies.
Add a festive napkin: Use a holiday-themed napkin or a small piece of festive fabric under the plate to tie the whole presentation together and enhance the Christmas ambiance.
Serve with a beverage: Pair the cookies with a small glass of milk or a festive hot chocolate to complete the holiday treat experience.
Essential Tools for Making M&M Cookies
Oven: Preheat to 175 degrees C or 350 degrees F to bake the cookies.
Microwave: Use to melt the butter for about 30 seconds.
Mixing bowl: Combine and mix the ingredients.
Electric mixer: Beat the butter and sugars until creamy and pale.
Measuring cups: Measure out the butter, sugars, syrup, flour, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure the vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.
Spatula: Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M's.
Baking sheet: Arrange the cookie dough balls for baking.
Parchment paper: Line the baking sheet to prevent cookies from sticking.
Cookie scoop: Scoop out uniform balls of cookie dough.
Cooling rack: Allow the cookies to cool after baking.
Storing and Freezing M&M Cookies for Later
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
Place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of cookies to keep them from sticking and to maintain their shape.
Store the cookies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They will keep fresh for up to a week at room temperature.
If you want to keep the cookies for longer, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Frozen M&M cookies will keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving. You can also warm them up slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft, chewy texture.
If you prefer your cookies crispy, you can refresh them by placing them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover M&M Cookies
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover m&m cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crispy around the edges. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the cookies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked ones.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds on high power. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in short intervals, checking after each interval to ensure they don't become too soft or mushy. The microwave method is quick and convenient, but it may result in a slightly different texture compared to oven reheating.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey center, use a toaster oven to reheat your leftover christmas cookies. Preheat the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to quickly reheat your m&m cookies. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and crispy. The air fryer method is fast and efficient, and it can help restore the cookies' original texture.
For a more indulgent treat, try warming your leftover cookies in a skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Place the cookies in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warm and slightly crispy. Serve the warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious and comforting dessert.
Interesting Trivia About M&M Cookies
A fun fact about this recipe is that using golden syrup instead of regular corn syrup adds a unique depth of flavor and a slight caramel note to the cookies. This ingredient is often used in British baking and can make your Christmas cookies stand out with a richer taste.
Is Making M&M Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This m&m cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, and chocolate chips are pantry staples, while the m&m's add a festive touch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are M&M Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for M&M cookies is not particularly healthy. Here are a few reasons why:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
- It uses both brown and white sugars, as well as golden syrup, adding a lot of sugar to the cookies
- The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate
- The cookies are loaded with chocolate chips and M&Ms, which are high in sugar and fat
While these ingredients make for a delicious treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with a healthier alternative like coconut oil or Greek yogurt
- Cut back on the sugar by using less brown and white sugars, and omitting the golden syrup
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Decrease the amount of chocolate chips and M&Ms, or replace them with healthier options like dried fruit or nuts
- Add in some rolled oats for extra fiber and nutrients
- Make smaller cookies to help with portion control
Remember, it's all about balance. Enjoying a treat like these M&M cookies occasionally is perfectly fine, but making some healthy tweaks to the recipe can help you indulge in a more nutritious way.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Christmas Cookie Recipe
This recipe for M&M Christmas cookies is a delightful blend of festive colors and classic flavors. The combination of semisweet chocolate chips and red and green M&Ms adds both visual appeal and a satisfying crunch. Melting the butter partially ensures a chewy texture, while the golden syrup and vanilla extract enhance the overall richness. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Just be cautious with the flour to avoid cakey cookies. Overall, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and will surely bring joy to any cookie platter.
Enhance Your M&M Cookies (Christmas Cookies) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this M&M Cookies (Christmas Cookies) Recipe:
This M&M cookies recipe is a surefire way to bring festive cheer to your holiday baking. With a perfect blend of butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, these cookies are both crispy and chewy. The addition of red and green M&M's and semisweet chocolate chips makes them visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve bakery-quality cookies that will impress your family and friends. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful treat every time.
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