Mint M&M Chocolate Cookies

There’s something undeniably irresistible about the combination of mint and chocolate, especially when it comes to cookies. These Mint M&M Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the refreshing zing of mint. With every bite, you get melty chocolate, crunchy candy-coated M&Ms, and an unmistakable minty flavor that transports you straight to dessert heaven. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with family and friends, these cookies are sure to impress.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Easy to prepare: No fancy techniques required, just simple mixing and baking.
– Flavor explosion: The combination of mint and chocolate is a crowd-pleaser.
– Texture perfection: Chewy in the center with a slight crisp at the edges.
– Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacks.
– Eye-catching: The colorful Mint M&Ms add a fun pop of color to each cookie.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mint M&Ms

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing bowl: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars a breeze.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for your cookies to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Cooling rack: Allows your cookies to cool properly for the best texture.

How to Prepare Mint M&M Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in the Mint M&Ms

Gently fold in the mint M&Ms with a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before indulging.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add pastel-colored M&Ms for a festive touch during Easter celebrations.
• Summer: Pair the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
• Fall: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies for an extra burst of mint flavor.
• Winter: Package cookies as holiday gifts, tied with colorful ribbon for a personal touch.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t skip the chilling step if you choose to refrigerate the dough; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
• Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give your cookies room to spread.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. If you want to store baked cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.

Mint M&M Chocolate Cookies FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate cocoa powder will enhance the chocolate flavor of your cookies, making them even more indulgent.

What can I use instead of mint M&Ms?

If you can’t find mint M&Ms, feel free to use regular M&Ms or even chocolate chips. You could also try adding crushed peppermint candies for a similar mint flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are set and slightly crisp, while the centers remain soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven for all the cookies.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get into the kitchen and whip up a batch of these Mint M&M Chocolate Cookies. The combination of refreshing mint and rich chocolate is truly delightful, making these cookies a treat you won’t want to miss. The next time you’re craving something sweet, remember this recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite! So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the baking magic begin. Enjoy every delicious bite!