Can I use regular M&Ms instead of Easter M&Ms?

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with any variety of M&Ms - regular, peanut, or seasonal colors. Just keep the measurements the same and enjoy the different look and flavor variations each type brings to the cookies.

Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

Excessive spreading usually happens when butter is too soft or melted. Make sure your butter is just softened, not melty. If your dough seems very soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. Also, check that your oven temperature is accurate with an oven thermometer.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they'll still be delicious. Just verify that your M&Ms are gluten-free as well (most are, but it's always good to check).

How can I keep the cookies soft for several days?

Store completely cooled cookies with a slice of bread in an airtight container. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread, helping them stay soft longer. Replace the bread slice when it becomes dry. Additionally, slightly underbaking the cookies initially will help them stay softer longer.

Easter M&M Cookies Recipe

Name: Easter M&M Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups Easter M&M’s

These Easter M&M Cookies are the perfect sweet treat to brighten your spring celebrations! Soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, these colorful cookies are studded with festive Easter M&Ms that add both a cheerful appearance and delicious chocolate flavor. They come together in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal last-minute treat for Easter gatherings or a fun baking activity with kids during the holiday weekend.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: From mixing to munching in less than 30 minutes – perfect for when you need a last-minute Easter treat!
Festive Appearance: The pastel-colored Easter M&Ms make these cookies naturally festive without any complicated decorating.
Family-Friendly: Kids love helping press the extra M&Ms on top, making this a perfect family baking project.
Crowd-Pleaser: The classic cookie base with colorful chocolate candies appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Flour: The foundation of our cookies, providing structure while keeping them tender.
Baking Soda: Gives the cookies their perfect rise and golden edges.
Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Butter: Use unsalted sweet cream butter, softened to room temperature for proper creaming. The fat content creates that irresistible texture.
Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel-like flavor that makes these cookies special.
Granulated Sugar: Creates the perfect amount of sweetness and helps with the cookies’ crisp edges.
Egg: Acts as a binder while adding richness and helping the cookies rise properly.
Vanilla Extract: Adds that warm, classic flavor that every great cookie needs.
Easter M&Ms: The star of the show! These colorful candies add festive spring colors and chocolate flavor. Reserve some for topping the cookies before baking.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Don’t stop at the basic recipe – here are some delicious ways to make these cookies your own:

Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips along with the M&Ms for double the chocolate flavor.
Texture Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
White Chocolate Wonder: Use white chocolate Easter M&Ms for a different flavor profile.
Cookie Bars: Press the dough into a 9×13 pan and bake for about 25 minutes for easy Easter cookie bars.

How to Make Easter M&M Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Setting this mixture aside ensures even distribution of the leavening agent throughout your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a standing mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened butter with both brown and white sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and is key to creating the perfect cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should look smooth and well-combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can make your cookies tough, so stop once there are no flour streaks visible.

Step 6: Fold in M&Ms

Gently fold in 1 cup of Easter M&Ms until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Portion and Shape

Using a medium ice cream scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Lightly press down on each cookie to form a thick disk shape.

Step 8: Add Extra M&Ms

Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top of each cookie, pressing them in slightly. This not only makes them look prettier but ensures you get candy in every bite.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned but the centers still look slightly soft.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best texture and easier mixing.
Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when the edges are just turning golden but the centers still look slightly underdone. They’ll continue cooking on the hot baking sheet.
Cookie Scoop: Using an ice cream scoop ensures uniform cookies that will bake evenly.
Chill Option: If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
Parchment Paper: Always use parchment paper for easy release and consistent baking.

How to Serve

These Easter M&M Cookies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways:

Holiday Celebrations

Arrange on a festive platter as part of your Easter dessert table. The pastel colors naturally fit right in with other spring decorations.

Gift-Giving

Stack a few cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with pastel ribbons for a sweet homemade Easter gift.

Serve With

Pair with a cold glass of milk for the classic combo, or with coffee for the adults. For an extra-special treat, sandwich vanilla ice cream between two cookies for Easter cookie ice cream sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture and keep cookies soft.

Freezing

The cookie dough freezes beautifully! Roll into balls, place on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen dough can be baked directly from the freezer (just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time).

Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, warm refrigerated or room-temperature cookies in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes, or microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use regular M&Ms instead of Easter M&Ms?

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with any variety of M&Ms – regular, peanut, or seasonal colors. Just keep the measurements the same and enjoy the different look and flavor variations each type brings to the cookies.
Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

Excessive spreading usually happens when butter is too soft or melted. Make sure your butter is just softened, not melty. If your dough seems very soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. Also, check that your oven temperature is accurate with an oven thermometer.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious. Just verify that your M&Ms are gluten-free as well (most are, but it’s always good to check).
How can I keep the cookies soft for several days?

Store completely cooled cookies with a slice of bread in an airtight container. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread, helping them stay soft longer. Replace the bread slice when it becomes dry. Additionally, slightly underbaking the cookies initially will help them stay softer longer.

Final Thoughts

These Easter M&M Cookies bring together the classic comfort of homemade cookies with the festive fun of Easter celebrations. Their simplicity makes them accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while their colorful appearance and delicious taste make them a standout treat. Whether you’re filling Easter baskets, serving dessert after your holiday meal, or simply brightening someone’s day with a sweet surprise, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. Happy baking and happy Easter!