Celebrate the holiday season with these irresistibly festive M&M cookies! Perfect for Christmas gatherings or as a cheerful treat throughout the winter, these cookies feature a delightful combination of buttery soft dough and colorful M&Ms. With the option to add white chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are not only a joy to make but also a hit at any festive occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The base for a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Enhances flavor with a hint of molasses.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides a classic, sweet aroma.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Aids in leavening.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup red and green M&Ms (holiday edition): Adds festive colors and chocolatey bites.
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For added sweetness and texture.
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional): Gives a festive, snowy look.

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
• Cream the butter with both sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy, which will take about 2-3 minutes with a mixer.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture until just combined to maintain a tender texture.

Step 3: Add M&Ms

• Gently fold the M&Ms and white chocolate chips into the batter to evenly distribute them without overmixing.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

• Drop 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the prepared sheets, spacing them to allow for spreading.
• Bake for 9-11 minutes until the edges are just turning golden but the centers are still soft, ensuring a chewy middle with crisp edges.

Step 5: Decorate

• Immediately after baking, add a few extra M&Ms on top for a more decorative look.
• Once slightly cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar to mimic a dusting of snow, enhancing their festive appeal.

Tips

• For the chewiest texture, pull cookies from the oven while slightly underdone and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.
• Store these cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to five days, or freeze dough balls for baking fresh cookies anytime.

Prep Time

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time

• 9-11 minutes

Total Time

• Approximately 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (per cookie)

• Calories: Approximately 180
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use different colored M&Ms for other occasions? A: Absolutely! Tailor the M&M colors to match any theme or holiday.

Q: How can I ensure my cookies come out soft every time? A: Avoid overbaking and remove them from the oven when the centers are still slightly soft.

Conclusion

These Holiday Festive Cookies with M&Ms are the perfect way to add a splash of color and sweetness to your holiday festivities. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them at home, these cookies promise to deliver joy and satisfaction to any cookie lover’s palate. Bake, decorate, and enjoy the magic of the season through these delightful treats! 🎄🍪