These Peanut Butter M&M’s Cookies are the perfect combination of rich, creamy peanut butter and colorful chocolate candies, resulting in a delightful treat that will please both kids and adults alike. Soft, chewy, and brimming with flavor, these cookies are an easy-to-make classic that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this recipe for several reasons. First, the combination of peanut butter and M&M’s creates a delightful flavor profile that is both rich and sweet. Second, the addition of instant vanilla pudding mix not only enhances the flavor but also guarantees a soft and chewy texture. Finally, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply indulge in a sweet treat at home, these cookies deliver on all fronts.
Introduction
Who doesn’t love cookies? They are a quintessential sweet treat enjoyed by people of all ages. Among the myriad of cookie varieties available, peanut butter cookies hold a special place in many hearts, and when you add colorful M&M’s, you elevate them to another level. This Peanut Butter M&M’s Cookies recipe will guide you through preparing this delightful snack that is perfect for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying on a quiet afternoon with a glass of milk.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let’s embark on this delicious journey to create the ultimate peanut butter cookies!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 box of instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 1 cup of brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- Mini chocolate chips (as desired)
- Peanut butter M&M’s (as desired, plus a few extra for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the mixture, along with the instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure everything is blended evenly.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 5: Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and your desired amount of peanut butter M&M’s. The dough should be thick and rich.
Step 6: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. Press a couple of extra M&M’s on top of each dough ball for decoration.
BAKING Note:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies may appear soft in the center, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Suggestions for Presentation:
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the cookies on a large platter. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over them for an extra touch of sweetness. Consider serving with glasses of cold milk or hot chocolate for a comforting treat.
Tips:
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the peanut butter.
- To make these cookies even more decadent, you can add chopped nuts for some extra crunch.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh, or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Time Estimates:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie (depending on size and ingredients used)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter M&M’s Cookies are not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With their soft texture and chewy bite, they will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to faces young and old alike. So bake away, and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of homemade cookies!
FAQ about Peanut Butter M&M’s Cookies
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your cookies.
2. How can I store leftover cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter will work as a substitution but may slightly alter the taste and texture.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
5. What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Feel free to add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or mix-ins like chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or dried fruits for a twist!