The Ultimate Crispy Peanut Butter M&M Cookies: A Sweet & Salty Delight Recipe
The origin story of these incredible Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies is quite charming – they were initially conceived as a humble backup, a delightful contingency plan in case a party cake didn’t quite live up to expectations. As fate would have it, both the cake and these sensational cookies turned out to be a magnificent success! From that memorable day, these cookies have held a cherished spot, captivating everyone with their irresistible texture and perfectly balanced flavor. Each cookie boasts a beautifully crinkly top, a satisfyingly crispy edge, and a wonderfully dark, rich hue, all testament to the generous amount of sugar baked into the recipe. While they undeniably lean towards the sweeter side, the brilliant addition of lightly salted peanuts provides the essential counterpoint, elevating them to a perfectly harmonious treat. This dynamic interplay of sweet and salty is more than just a flavor; it’s the very heart and soul of these cookies, making them truly unforgettable and a must-have in any cookie lover’s repertoire.
There’s something truly magical about the combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and the satisfying crunch of colorful M&M candies. These cookies deliver on all fronts: they’re incredibly easy to make, boast an irresistible texture, and offer a flavor profile that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe promises a delightful experience and results that will have everyone asking for more. Get ready to bake a batch of pure joy that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection and a staple for any occasion, from casual snacks to festive gatherings.
Even years after their accidental debut, Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies remain a steadfast favorite in my kitchen. They are the ideal treat for virtually any occasion, whether it’s a grand celebration or a quiet afternoon pick-me-up. I’ve often found myself adjusting the recipe to suit different needs, most commonly halving it to produce a smaller, more manageable batch. This is perfect for those spontaneous cookie cravings or when I need just enough for a small family gathering without an overwhelming surplus. For truly tiny batches, I’ve even experimented with quartering the recipe, a clever trick that involves using just two tablespoons of a beaten egg in place of a whole egg to maintain the precise moisture and binding needed for perfect cookie texture. Furthermore, while the original recipe specifically calls for dark brown sugar, contributing to a deeper, more molasses-rich flavor and a chewier texture, I’ve discovered that these Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies are equally delightful when made with light brown sugar. The lighter sugar yields a slightly milder, softer caramel note. To be perfectly honest, I’m still torn between the two – each offers a unique, yet equally delicious, twist on the classic. The choice often depends on my mood, but rest assured, both options will result in fantastic cookies!
When I first shared this beloved recipe with the world, I inadvertently omitted a crucial detail: the precise yield. As a fellow baker, I know how important it is to have an estimate of how many delicious treats you’ll get from a batch! After countless baking sessions and meticulous observation, I can now confidently report that using a standard medium cookie scoop typically yields around 48 perfectly portioned cookies. This scoop size ensures uniformity in baking and appearance, making your cookies look as good as they taste. While this is a reliable estimate, you might find yourself with slightly fewer or even a few more, depending on how generously you scoop. Personally, my batches often hit the higher end of that number – I confess, I tend to be quite liberal with the M&Ms, which I believe is a perfectly justifiable reason for a slightly larger yield! More M&Ms means more chocolatey goodness in every bite, and who can argue with that?
Beyond the delightful taste and texture, there’s a certain comforting nostalgia wrapped up in Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies. They instantly transport you back to childhood, evoking memories of simpler times and the joy of homemade treats. The act of making them from scratch fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma of warm peanuts and baking chocolate that promises comfort and happiness. The entire process, from mixing to baking, is remarkably straightforward, making this an excellent recipe for bakers of all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just taking your first steps in the culinary world. The satisfaction of watching the dough transform into golden-brown, crinkly-edged cookies, each one uniquely adorned with its scattered M&Ms, is incredibly rewarding. And, perhaps the best part of all, is sharing these delicious cookies with friends and family, witnessing their faces light up with pure delight with every single bite.
- Best Yet M&Ms Cookies
- Tiny Chocolate Chip Cookies
- M&M Oreo Chunk Chocolate Chip Cookies
- M&M Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
- Dark Chocolate M&Ms Cookies
One crucial piece of advice I cannot stress enough for these particular cookies: **do not omit the peanuts.** While some recipes might offer flexibility with mix-ins, in the case of these Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies, the lightly salted peanuts are not just an optional extra; they are an absolutely essential component of the cookie’s unique charm and perfect flavor balance. As I’ve highlighted, these cookies are inherently sweet – wonderfully, deliciously sweet, with a delightful richness from the peanut butter and chocolate. Without the contrasting saltiness and added crunch from the extra peanuts, that sweetness can become singular and, for some palates, potentially overwhelming. The salted peanuts serve a vital role: they brilliantly cut through the richness, providing a much-needed savory counterpoint that elevates the entire flavor profile. They create a delightful interplay of textures and tastes on your palate, ensuring each bite is complex, dynamic, and incredibly satisfying, rather than just one-dimensionally sweet. If you absolutely must skip them due to severe allergies or an intense aversion, consider adding an extra pinch of flaky sea salt to the dough or sprinkling some on top before baking to attempt to achieve a similar balance. However, for the authentic, irresistible experience that makes these cookies truly shine, the whole, lightly salted peanuts are, in my humble opinion, completely non-negotiable.
Recipe
Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies
Cookie Madness
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour 270 grams
- 1 teaspoon baking soda 5 ml
- 1 teaspoon salt 5 ml
- 8 oz unsalted butter 230 grams, cut into chunks
- 1 cup peanut butter smooth or crunchy (240 grams)
- 1 cup granulated sugar 200 grams
- 1 cup dark brown sugar 200 grams
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup plain MMs candy I usually use more
- 1 cup peanuts lightly salted
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed; set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and both granulated and brown sugars using the high speed of an electric mixer for 3 solid minutes until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, making your cookies soft. Beat in the peanut butter until smooth, followed by the eggs (one at a time) and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined after each addition.
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Gradually stir in the reserved flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Then, gently fold in the M&Ms candies, salted peanuts, and semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Using a tablespoon or a medium cookie scoop, scoop up the dough and shape it into uniform balls. After making the cookie balls, you can bake them immediately or arrange them on a plate, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use. Chilling can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.
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When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Arrange the chilled cookie dough balls on the prepared parchment-lined cookie sheets, leaving enough space between them for spreading. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still slightly soft. Do not overbake for the best chewy texture.
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Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set properly without breaking.
Notes
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
Once your irresistible Peanut Butter and M&M Cookies have cooled to perfection, they are ready to be savored! These delightful cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide array of occasions. Serve them simply with a tall, frosty glass of cold milk for a quintessential comforting treat that transports you straight back to cherished childhood memories. They’re also a fantastic and eye-catching addition to any dessert platter at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser with their vibrant colors and familiar, beloved flavors. For a delightful midday surprise, pack them in school or work lunchboxes. Or, treat yourself to one (or two, we won’t tell!) with your afternoon coffee or tea for a moment of sweet indulgence. These cookies also make thoughtful and much-appreciated homemade gifts for neighbors, teachers, or friends, especially when presented in a charming cookie tin or a simple cellophane bag tied with a pretty ribbon.
To ensure optimal freshness and enjoy their delicious taste for as long as possible, store these baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their quality and delightful texture for up to 3-5 days. If you wish to extend their shelf life even further, these cookies are excellent candidates for freezing. Simply arrange the cooled, baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or so. For that irresistible freshly baked taste and a slightly warm, gooey center, you can also gently warm them in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.