Perfect Christmas M&M Cookies Recipe for Easy Holiday Baking

Close your eyes and imagine the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen—a buttery scent mingled with the sweet, chocolatey goodness of M&M candies and warm, melted chocolate chips. It’s the kind of moment that instantly transports you to the holidays, where everything feels a little more magical. These Perfect Christmas M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just cookies—they’re a tradition, a treat, and a memory waiting to be made.

The first time I made these, it was a snowy December evening. I was determined to whip up something festive and comforting, and these cookies checked every box. They were the kind of treat that made my family gather around the kitchen, sneaking cookies off the cooling rack before I could even finish baking the batch. (Honestly, I couldn’t blame them—it was hard to resist those colorful M&Ms peeking through the golden-brown cookie dough.)

Fast-forward to today, and this recipe has become my go-to for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, and cozy nights with a mug of hot cocoa. After several rounds of testing—strictly in the name of research, of course—I’ve perfected the balance of crispy edges, soft centers, and just the right amount of chocolate. Trust me, these cookies are about to become a holiday staple in your home, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These cookies come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
• Festive Fun: Bright red and green M&Ms add that cheerful holiday vibe, making these cookies perfect for Christmas parties or gifting.
• Kid-Friendly: Little hands love helping to press M&Ms into the dough, making this a fun family activity.
• Crowd-Pleaser: You’ll be the star of every cookie exchange—these cookies always get rave reviews.
• Perfect Balance: Crispy edges, soft and chewy centers, and a burst of chocolate flavor in every bite.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The brown sugar adds rich caramel notes, while the M&Ms bring a pop of sweetness and crunch. Plus, the addition of chocolate chips ensures every bite is loaded with indulgent chocolate goodness. They’re perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen, and they’re guaranteed to make your holidays a little brighter.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a magical holiday treat. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

• Unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and helps create a tender cookie.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create those slightly crispy edges.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth of flavor and keeps the cookies chewy.
• Large eggs: For structure and moisture.
• Vanilla extract: A must-have for flavor enhancement.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough. For gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate make these cookies irresistible.
• Christmas M&Ms: The star of the show! Red and green candies add festive flair.

If you’re missing any ingredients, don’t worry. These cookies are super forgiving, and I’ll share substitution tips later in this post.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

• Mixing bowls: One for wet ingredients, one for dry. If you’re like me, you probably have a favorite bowl you always use!
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer works best for creaming the butter and sugars together. You can mix by hand, but it’ll take a bit more elbow grease.
• Baking sheets: Nonstick or lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create perfectly uniform cookies. If you don’t have one, a tablespoon will work.
• Cooling rack: So your cookies cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.

If you’re just starting out in baking, don’t worry—basic kitchen tools work just fine! And if your mixer has seen better days, a sturdy spoon and some determination will do the trick.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving that perfect cookie texture, so don’t rush!
3. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to dense cookies.
6. Fold in 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup (200g) Christmas M&Ms. Save a handful of M&Ms to press into the tops of the cookies later.
7. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Press a few of the reserved M&Ms onto the tops of each cookie for extra festive flair.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked, but that’s what gives them their soft, chewy texture.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. (If you can resist eating them straight out of the oven, you’re stronger than me!)

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your Christmas M&M cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs blend more easily, giving you that perfect cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This keeps the cookies from spreading too much.
• Don’t overbake: Cookies continue to cook on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven. Take them out when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers look slightly underdone.
• Choose quality ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate chips and fresh M&Ms for the best flavor and texture.

And hey, don’t be afraid to make mistakes—some of my best baking discoveries came from happy accidents!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to make these cookies your own? Here are some creative ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Be sure to check the labels on your M&Ms and chocolate chips for gluten-free certification.
• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter substitute and dairy-free chocolate chips for a lactose-free version.
• Flavor Twists: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor, or mix in 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes for extra crunch.
• Seasonal Adaptation: Change up the M&M colors to match other holidays—pastel for Easter or orange and brown for Thanksgiving.
• Nutty Delight: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

One year, I made a batch with white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet and added dried cranberries—it was a hit! Feel free to experiment with your favorite mix-ins to create your own holiday masterpiece.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the chocolate is still melty and warm. Serve them with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or even a cup of spiced tea for the ultimate holiday treat.

To store, let the cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days—if they last that long! For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them up for a few seconds in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.

If you’re planning ahead, you can freeze the dough instead. Roll it into individual balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you can expect from each cookie (approximate values):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g

While these cookies are definitely a treat, they also have some redeeming qualities. The brown sugar provides a rich depth of flavor, while the eggs add protein. If you opt for dark chocolate chips, you’ll get a boost of antioxidants, too. They’re not just delicious—they’re a holiday indulgence you can feel good about!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday cookie recipe, these Perfect Christmas M&M Chocolate Chip Cookies are the answer. They’re festive, easy to make, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a holiday gathering, or sneaking one (or three) during a cozy night in, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy.

Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes—add a pinch of cinnamon, extra M&Ms, or your favorite nuts. They’re versatile enough to handle whatever you throw at them!

So, preheat your oven, grab those red and green M&Ms, and let the magic of the season take over your kitchen. I’d love to hear how these cookies turn out for you—share your thoughts in the comments, and let me know if you found a fun variation you love. Happy baking and warm holiday wishes to you and yours!

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Regular M&Ms work just as well, but the red and green ones add a festive touch for the holidays.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, you don’t have to, but chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much and give them a thicker texture.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough and bake fresh cookies as needed.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

Use the scoop-and-level method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup, then level it off with the back of a knife to avoid packing it down.

Can I double this recipe?

For sure! This recipe scales beautifully. Just make sure to use a large enough mixing bowl and adjust baking times slightly if needed.

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