Christmas M&m’s Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Best Holiday Treats

Introduction to Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh cookies wafting through your home during the holiday season, and if you’re looking for a festive treat that brings joy and color to your dessert table, Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies are a must-bake! Picture this: You’re surrounded by family and friends, laughter fills the air, and you’re indulging in warm, gooey cookies studded with vibrant red and green M&M’s. What’s not to love?

Why Christmas M&M’s Cookies are a Must-Bake

These cookies aren’t just your average chocolate chip cookies; they offer a delightful twist that captures the spirit of Christmas. The combination of classic chocolate chips with the crunchy, colorful M&M’s elevates them from simple to spectacular. According to a study by the American Baking Association, cookies are one of the most popular baked goods enjoyed during the holiday season, making them a perfect addition to your festive gatherings.

• Festive Appeal: The bright colors of the M&M’s make these cookies visually appealing. They can be a great centerpiece for any holiday dessert table and are sure to impress your guests.

• Family Fun: Baking these cookies is an excellent opportunity to engage with family and friends. It’s a fun, interactive activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Imagine cozying up in your kitchen, laughing, and sharing stories while the cookies bake. Plus, you can involve your little ones by letting them help mix the dough or sprinkle on the M&M’s.

• Versatility: While our recipe is a classic take, you can easily adapt it by incorporating different ingredients. How about adding a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty combo?

Feeling inspired? You can check out this guide on holiday baking tips to boost your cookie-making skills. Remember, creating these Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies isn’t just about the end product but also about the memories created along the way. So gather your loved ones, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients for Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Essential ingredients for these festive cookies

When it comes to creating the perfect batch of Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll need a blend of classic ingredients that come together for a delightful flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed for extra moisture)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark, your choice)
• 1 cup Christmas M&M’s (the star of the show!)

These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, making your cookie-making adventure a breeze!

Optional ingredients for extra flair

Want to add a little something special to your Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies? Consider mixing in:

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts for added texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for a hint of warmth)
• A sprinkle of sea salt (to enhance the sweet and salty contrast)
• Red and green sprinkles (for that extra festive touch!)

By incorporating these optional ingredients, you can personalize your cookies, making them a unique treat for holiday gatherings. For a deeper dive into variations of cookie recipes, check out Joy of Baking.

Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, get ready for a fun baking session filled with festivities and delicious smells that will set the holiday mood!

Step-by-step Preparation of Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Christmas is a magical time of year, filled with festive cheer, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious cookies! One delight that brings a pop of color and sweetness to the holiday season are the Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies. With their chewy texture and combo of chocolatey goodness, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Here’s your friendly guide to making these delightful treats from scratch!

Gather your ingredients

Before you dive into the baking, ensure you have all your ingredients ready to go. Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate, as you prefer)
• 1 cup holiday-themed M&M’s (like red and green ones)

Having everything out makes the process much smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, no last-minute dashes to the store for missing ingredients!

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is key because it helps prevent your cookies from sticking and ensures they bake evenly. The smell of fresh cookies baking will soon fill your kitchen, bringing that festive spirit to life!

Cream together butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. You want to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential as it creates air pockets in the batter, leading to light and chewy cookies.

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract

Next, crack in the two eggs and add the vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until thoroughly combined. The vanilla brings a warm flavor that melds perfectly with the chocolate; you can’t go wrong with a splash of it!

Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Once mixed, gradually add in this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Fold in chocolate chips and M&Ms

Now comes the fun part: folding in the chocolate chips and M&Ms! Use a spatula to introduce these vibrant candies and chocolate morsels into the dough. This is where you can feel free to get creative. Feel free to adjust the ratios of M&Ms and chocolate chips to your liking!

Scoop and place dough on the baking sheet

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 2 inches of space. You want each cookie to have room to expand and bake evenly.

Bake to perfection

Slide your baking sheets into the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. After baking, the cookies will continue to firm up a bit on the baking sheet, so don’t worry if they look a tad underdone when you pull them out.

Cool and enjoy!

Once your Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to set perfectly. Now, it’s your time to shine—grab a warm cookie, take a bite, and savor the holiday joy!

Baking cookies is a wonderful way to connect with loved ones during the holidays, so feel free to share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!

Variations on Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Christmas is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen, especially with M&M’s chocolate chip cookies. If you’re looking to mix things up this holiday season, here are two fun variations that could become new family favorites!

Mint Chocolate M&M Cookies

For a festive twist, consider adding mint to your cookies! Just imagine the delightful crunch of mint chocolate M&M’s melded with the classic chocolate chip dough.

• What to do: Substitute half of the regular chocolate chips with mint chocolate M&M’s. You could also add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for an extra pop of flavor.
• Tip: Chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance the texture and overall flavor.

If you want to explore more mint-flavored treats, check out this article on mint dessert ideas.

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

If you’re a fan of creamy peanut butter, this variation might just steal your heart! The combination of peanut butter and M&M’s creates a sweet and salty flavor explosion.

• How to customize: Mix in a half cup of smooth or crunchy peanut butter into your cookie dough. Replace some chocolate chips with peanut butter M&M’s for that scrumptious bite.
• Baking tip: Slightly reduce the sugar in the recipe since peanut butter has some natural sweetness.

You can find some more ideas for peanut butter desserts here.

By trying these Christmas M&M’s chocolate chip cookies variations, you’re not just baking cookies; you’re creating joyful memories that friends and family will cherish during the holiday season!

Baking Tips and Notes for Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Key Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies is a delightful journey! Here are a few key tips to ensure your cookies come out just right:

• Butter Temperature: Use softened butter for that creamy texture. It should be slightly warm to the touch but not melted. This helps achieve a perfect blend with the sugars.
• Chilling the Dough: Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step not only intensifies the flavors but also helps the cookies maintain their shape in the oven.
• Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. An oven thermometer can be a game changer if you suspect your oven’s temperature is off.

Storage Tips for Freshness

To keep your Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh and delicious, storage is key:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, maintaining their chewy texture.
• Freezing: To enjoy them later, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months!

For more information on cookie storage, check out The Kitchn. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing with Hot Beverages

The festive vibes of Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies shine even brighter with the perfect hot beverage! Imagine sinking into your favorite cozy chair with a cup of rich hot chocolate or a classic peppermint mocha in hand. The combination is a delightful way to balance the sweetness of the cookies. Alternatively, consider a warm cup of chai tea for a spiced kick that enhances every bite. Not sure how to make the perfect hot chocolate? Check out this fantastic guide on homemade hot chocolate here.

Creative Ways to Gift Cookies

What better way to spread the holiday cheer than by gifting trays of your delicious Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies? Present them in rustic cookie tins or mason jars adorned with festive ribbons. How about baking a mixed batch alongside classic cookies for a delightful surprise? You could even create a “cookie jar kit” by layering the dry ingredients in a jar and attaching a cute recipe card, making it a fun gift that keeps on giving! For more cookie gift ideas, take a look at this insightful article here.

With these serving suggestions, your cookie experience this holiday season will surely be memorable!

Time Breakdown for Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preparation Time

Making these delicious Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies is a breeze! You’ll only need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients, mix everything together, and shape the dough into delightful little balls. This is the perfect time to preheat your oven and maybe even enjoy a holiday playlist to get in the festive spirit!

Baking Time

Once your oven has reached the ideal temperature of 350°F, pop your trays of cookies in for approximately 10-12 minutes. The aroma will fill your home, making it almost impossible to wait until they’re cool enough to enjoy!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes from start to finish! This means you can whip up a batch of these cheerful treats in no time, making them ideal for surprise guests or a last-minute holiday treat. Who wouldn’t want to savor these colorful cookies during the season? Be sure to check out more festive ideas at Food Network or Martha Stewart. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Calories per cookie

When indulging in Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s essential to balance enjoyment with mindfulness. Each cookie contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on your portion sizes and ingredients used. So while it’s tempting to enjoy a few, remember that moderation is key, especially during the festivities.

Key nutrients to consider

These delightful cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide some key nutrients:

• Fat: While they contain healthy fats from butter, remember that moderation is important.
• Carbohydrates: The sugar and flour contribute to energy, but be cautious of excessive intake.
• Protein: With the inclusion of eggs and chocolate, you’ll find a modest amount of protein per cookie.
• Fiber: If you opt for whole-grain flour, you can boost the fiber content slightly.

A special touch of colorful M&Ms welcomes the holidays and adds a unique character to your treats! For further insights on making these cookies healthier, you might enjoy checking out resources like Harvard Health for nutritional advice. Don’t forget to savor each bite and share them with loved ones for a truly festive experience!

FAQs about Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a fantastic way to prepare for holiday baking in advance. Simply scoop the dough into individual balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a resealable bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies anytime and wow your guests effortlessly!

What substitutions can I make for the ingredients?

If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t fret! Here are a few easy swaps that maintain the deliciousness of your Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies:

• Butter: If you’re short on butter, coconut oil or vegetable shortening can be used in equal amounts.
• Brown sugar: If you run out of brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses—or just use all granulated sugar instead.
• M&Ms: Feel free to mix in different types of holiday candies, or even use chocolate chunks or nuts for a fun twist.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Leftover cookies (if there are any!) should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transferring them to a container or freezer-safe bag. Just remember, when you’re ready for a sweet treat, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying! Want more cookie storage tips? Check out this article for expert suggestions.

Happy baking!

Conclusion on Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking Christmas M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookies is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s about spreading joy and love during the festive season. The aroma of cookies wafting through your home can bring back cherished memories, making this activity truly special.

Sharing these colorful treats with friends, family, or neighbors not only elevates your holiday spirit but can also create a delightful atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply bringing a smile to someone’s face, cookies have a unique way of connecting us.

So gather your ingredients, make some memories, and savor each bite of these festive cookies. For more tips on baking and holiday recipes, check out Delish or Food Network. Happy baking!

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