Name: Chewy Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies to Brighten Your Season
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened to room temperature); 1 cup Peanut Butter (Choose smooth conventional); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (No substitutions recommended); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Lightly packed); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 3 large Eggs (At room temperature); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Mini M&Ms (For festive color); 1.5 cups Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 tablespoon Coarse Sanding Sugar (Optional for topping)

The smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air can instantly transport you to a world of warmth and joy, especially during the holiday season. Enter my Chewy Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies, the perfect treat to share with loved ones and delight your taste buds. These cookies strike an incredible balance between a crispy edge and a gooey center, all while being packed with colorful mini M&Ms that make them festive and fun. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together in just a few simple steps, making them an easy addition to your holiday baking repertoire. So, why not add some sparkle to your cookie plate this year? What special touch will you bring to your batch?

Why are these cookies a must-bake?

Celebrate the season: These Chewy Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies are the highlight of any festive gathering, bringing joy with every bite. Irresistible texture: With a delightful contrast of crispy edges and gooey centers, they’re the perfect treat for texture lovers. Effortless preparation: Designed for bakers of all levels, you can whip these up in no time! Festive flair: Colorful mini M&Ms add a cheerful pop, making them not just delicious but visually appealing too. Crowd favorite: These cookies are bound to disappear quickly, so prepare to share your baking secrets! For an equally indulgent treat, try these Brown Butter Cookies or pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a truly festive experience!

Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these festive delights!

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
• Peanut Butter – Choose smooth conventional peanut butter to enhance the taste and texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds complexity to the flavor; no substitutions recommended.
• Brown Sugar – Lightly packed to contribute moisture and a hint of caramel.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create the cookie’s structure.
• Eggs – 3 large, at room temperature to bind ingredients effectively; beat in separately for proper incorporation.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups for the perfect chewy cookie base.
• Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon; a key leavening agent for rise.
• Baking Powder – 1 ½ teaspoons to ensure the ideal texture alongside baking soda.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.

For the Mix-Ins
• Mini M&Ms – 2 cups to add festive color and sweetness; they’re the star of these Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies!
• Mini Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – 1 ½ cups for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
• Coarse Sanding Sugar (optional) – 1 tablespoon to sprinkle on top for a bit of crunch and sparkle.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, begin by beating 1 cup of softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes. Then, add in 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, continuing to mix until the two create a homogeneous blend. The mixture should appear creamy and smooth, setting the perfect base for your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate Sugars
Next, gradually add 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar to the peanut butter mixture. Beat everything together on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth, taking about 2 minutes. The sugars will dissolve slightly, creating a rich, sweet mixture that enhances the flavor of your cookies as you prepare to add the eggs.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
With the mixer still running on low speed, add 3 large eggs one at a time, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each addition. For the final egg, use only the yolk, discarding the white. Follow this step by mixing in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until well combined. This adds depth and warmth to your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies’ flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually beat this dry mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing as this could affect the texture of your cookies, keeping them soft and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and M&Ms
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in 2 cups of mini M&Ms and 1 ½ cups of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie batter. Ensure that the candies are evenly distributed for a festive touch in every bite. The mixture should be thick and studded with colorful chunks, ready for chilling to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together while firming up the dough, making it easier to scoop. After chilling, the dough should be slightly firmer and easier to handle, ready for shaping into cookies.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. The oven will be hot and ready for the cookies, contributing to the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft centers that make these Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies irresistible.

Step 8: Portion the Dough
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator, and use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking. The dough should be thick and generous, promising a delightful bite when baked.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes. The cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center and golden at the edges for that perfect chewy texture. If desired, sprinkle them with coarse sanding sugar immediately after removing them from the oven to add a festive sparkle.

Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for around 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set without becoming too hard. Enjoy these chewy Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies warm, or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence!

Storage Tips for Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container, where they will last for up to a week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive freshness, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up while softening the chewy centers once again.

What to Serve with Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies

Elevate your festive gathering with delightful pairings that complement these iconic cookies perfectly.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich peanut butter flavor and adds a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ chewy texture. Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
Hot Chocolate: The warmth and richness of hot cocoa create a cozy pairing, perfect for snuggling up on a chilly holiday evening. Consider adding whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra festive flair.
Milk: A classic pairing for cookies, a tall glass of cold milk balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut buttery goodness. You could even try chocolate milk for a fun twist!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful stickiness that’s hard to resist. It transforms the cookie experience into a decadent dessert-worthy treat.
Pecan Pie: Serve alongside a slice of pecan pie to create a lovely dessert spread that celebrates the best of holiday flavors. The nutty crunch perfectly contrasts the chewy texture of the cookies.
Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter featuring berries or citrus can cut through the richness of the cookies, refreshing the palate and adding a burst of color to your dessert table.
Eggnog: Embrace the holiday spirit with a glass of eggnog. This creamy, spiced treat pairs beautifully with the sweet and salty notes of your cookies, creating a festive and satisfying experience.
Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of your favorite coffee or spiced tea enhances the flavors of the cookies while adding warmth to your holiday gathering, making it a perfect winding down option after a busy day.

Expert Tips for Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies

Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Use conventional peanut butter for the best texture; natural versions may make cookies too oily or crumbly.
Monitor the Baking Time: Avoid over-baking your cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center to maintain that chewy goodness everyone loves.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, particularly eggs and butter, are at room temperature. This helps to create a smoother batter and better cookie texture.
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes enhances flavor and makes it easier to scoop, resulting in perfectly rounded cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of delightful Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to streamline their holiday preparations! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. For even greater convenience, you can scoop the dough into individual balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This method not only saves you time but ensures your cookies are just as delicious and fresh when it’s time to enjoy them!

Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies with these easy and fun variations!

Nutty Twist: Swap out conventional peanut butter for almond butter for a delightful nutty flavor, giving your cookies a unique twist on the classic taste.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace mini M&Ms with crushed chocolate bars or chocolate-covered candies for an extra boost of chocolate in every bite. A fudgier experience awaits!
Coconut Surprise: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical touch. Pairing coconut with peanut butter creates a scrumptious combination perfect for holiday gatherings.
Crunchy Add-In: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch and added texture. This variation not only boosts flavor but also offers a satisfying bite.
Spicy Kick: Blend in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle heat and warmth, creating a surprising taste sensation that dances on your palate.
Festive Sprinkles: Use red and green sprinkles along with mini M&Ms for extra festive flair. These colorful additions add a cheerful pop, perfect for brightening your holiday cookie platter!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Your cookies will retain their chewy goodness while accommodating any guests!
Fruity Flavor: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into your cookie dough. This fruity addition will elevate your cookies with a sweet-tart contrast that balances the richness of peanut butter perfectly.

These variations will not only add unique flavors to your cookies but will also impress your friends and family. For another delectable treat, consider whipping up some Peanut Butter Blossoms or a batch of Honey Cookies Chewy to complement your holiday spread! Enjoy experimenting!

Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, for the best results, I recommend using conventional smooth peanut butter. Natural peanut butter, unfortunately, has a different texture that can lead to cookies that are crumbly or too oily. Conventional peanut butter provides a perfect balance of flavor and consistency crucial for those chewy centers.

How should I store the cookies after baking?
To keep your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 5 days. This method will ensure that they retain their soft and chewy texture. You can also refrigerate them in an airtight container, which will extend their life up to a week!

Can I freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies?
Yes! For the best results, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Portion it into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few additional minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, baked cookies can be frozen as well; store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and enjoy them at your leisure!

What should I do if my cookies turn out too hard?
If you find your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies came out hard, it’s likely they were overbaked. Keep an eye on the baking time; they should look slightly underbaked in the center when you pull them out. Another tip is to make sure the butter is genuinely softened, not melted, as melted butter can lead to a drier cookie. If you want them softer again, try placing a slice of bread in the container with the cookies for a few hours; the cookies will absorb moisture and soften.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! While the ingredients are quite resistant to allergies, do note that these cookies contain peanuts, gluten (from the flour), and dairy (from the butter). For egg allergies, using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit until it thickens) can be a successful substitute. Just remember that the texture might slightly differ, but it’s a delightfully inclusive alternative for those seeking to enjoy the holiday spirit!

How long should I let the cookies cool before storage?
After baking, it’s best to let your Holiday M&M Peanut Butter Cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them helps them set properly without becoming too hard and preserves that delicious chewy texture you crave!