Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe

Save this recipe on:

Soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful crunch, these Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies are a dessert lover’s dream. The moment you bite into one, you’re met with a golden peanut butter base that’s rich and buttery, followed by the sweet, slightly crispy candy coating of M&Ms, and the smooth milk chocolate inside. These cookies balance nostalgic comfort with eye-catching fun—perfect for after-school snacks, bake sales, or simply treating yourself.

What sets these cookies apart is their texture: slightly crisp on the edges with a pillowy soft center. The peanut butter gives them a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality, while the M&Ms add bursts of color, crunch, and chocolate goodness in every bite. Whether you’re making a batch for a festive holiday table or a weekday craving, these cookies never fail to delight.

---

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe

• Irresistibly soft and chewy: A texture everyone adores.
• Packed with flavor: The nutty depth of peanut butter + rich M&Ms = flavor explosion.
• Kid-friendly and colorful: A hit at birthdays and family gatherings.
• Easy to make: No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps.
• Perfect for any occasion: From casual treats to festive gifts.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

To make these Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies turn out bakery-perfect, a few simple tools will make the process smoother and more precise:

• Mixing Bowls (at least 2 sizes): You’ll need one for dry ingredients and one for creaming the wet ingredients. Using separate bowls helps keep measurements and textures controlled.
• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Creaming the butter, sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy is key to getting that soft, chewy texture.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding in the M&Ms without breaking them and for scraping every bit of dough from the bowl.
• Cookie Scoop (Medium): Ensures uniform cookie sizes so they bake evenly.
• Baking Sheets: Preferably light-colored aluminum to prevent over-browning on the bottoms.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Cooling Rack: Lets cookies cool evenly and helps retain that soft center.

These tools may seem basic, but each plays a crucial role in achieving consistent, bakery-style cookies every time.

---

Preparation Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes. This helps them cream better and blend smoothly with other ingredients.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Especially after adding the flour. Overmixing develops gluten, which leads to tough cookies.
• Fold in the M&Ms Last: Mixing them in too early can cause them to break or bleed color into the dough.
• Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This enhances flavor and helps control spreading during baking.
• Space the Cookies Evenly: Give them room to spread—about 2 inches apart.

With just a little prep and the right tools, you’ll be ready to whip up a batch of soft, peanut buttery, chocolate-filled cookies in no time.

---

Ingredients for This Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistibly soft and chewy cookies. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and helps create a soft, tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter – The star flavor; adds moisture and that signature nutty taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and a slight crisp on the edges.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed) – Adds chewiness and depth with its molasses notes.
• 1 large egg – Binds everything together and contributes to the chewy texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor and enhances sweetness.
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookie dough.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft in the center.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and boosts flavor.
• 1 cup M&Ms (Peanut Butter or Regular Peanut preferred) – Adds crunch, color, and chocolate bursts.
• Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts – For added texture and richness.

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately—especially the flour and sugars—to maintain the right cookie consistency and shape.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe

Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect batch of peanut butter M&Ms cookies. Each step is designed to help you get the best flavor, texture, and appearance.

---

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

---

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.

---

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated.

---

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined—do not overmix.

---

Step 5: Fold in M&Ms

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the M&Ms. Save a small handful to press on top of the dough balls before baking (this makes them look picture-perfect!).

---

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to portion out dough balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Roll lightly between your palms and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Press a few extra M&Ms on top of each ball for visual appeal.

---

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly underbaked—this ensures they stay soft. Don’t overbake!

---

Step 8: Cool

Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. This allows them to set without drying out.

---

Now you’ve got a tray full of warm, chewy peanut butter cookies studded with melty M&Ms—ready to enjoy or share!

---

Notes

• Room temperature ingredients make all the difference. They blend more easily and create a smoother dough, which means a better-textured cookie.
• Add-ins can be customized: Swap some M&Ms with mini chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces, or even chopped nuts for variety.
• Double the batch and freeze half: This dough freezes well, so you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime with minimal effort.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: These cookies will look slightly underdone when ready. Take them out early to keep the centers soft and chewy—they’ll finish setting as they cool.
• Using natural peanut butter: While healthier, natural peanut butter can separate and result in oily, flat cookies. Stick with creamy commercial brands like Jif or Skippy.
• Overmixing after adding flour: This activates the gluten and can make the cookies dense and tough. Mix until the flour is just combined.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Give the cookies enough room to spread properly. Overcrowding leads to uneven baking.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour = dry cookies. Spoon and level it into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Being mindful of these common mistakes ensures every batch of cookies turns out bakery-quality—crispy-edged, soft-centered, and packed with peanut butter-chocolate perfection.

---

What to Serve With Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies?

These colorful and chewy cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right treat or beverage can elevate the experience into something special—whether you’re serving guests or indulging yourself.

---

8 Recommendations

1. Cold Milk
   A classic companion! The rich peanut butter and chocolate pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk—dairy or non-dairy.
2. Hot Coffee or Espresso
   The slight bitterness of coffee balances the cookie’s sweetness beautifully.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Make an ice cream sandwich using two cookies for a decadent dessert.
4. Chocolate or Peanut Butter Milkshake
   Dunk or serve alongside for a rich, indulgent combo.
5. Fresh Berries
   A bowl of raspberries or strawberries adds freshness and contrast.
6. Salted Pretzels
   Serve on a platter with crunchy pretzels for a sweet-and-salty snack board.
7. Banana Slices with Honey Drizzle
   Adds a healthy twist and plays well with the peanut butter flavor.
8. Whipped Cream and Crushed Peanuts
   Add as toppings for a dessert platter or mini cookie parfait cups.

These combinations make the cookies even more fun to share—and impossible to resist!

---

Storage Instructions

To keep your Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies fresh, soft, and full of flavor, proper storage is key:

• Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain softness (the bread will go stale, not the cookies!).
• Refrigerator: Not recommended, as refrigeration can dry them out and alter the texture.
• Freezer – Baked Cookies: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
• Freezer – Cookie Dough: Scoop dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Cookie, Approximate)

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Serving Size: 1 cookie (based on 18 cookies per batch)

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands used and portion sizes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

---

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, but it will slightly change the texture. Chunky peanut butter adds extra crunch and small nut pieces throughout the cookie, which some people love. Just make sure it’s not natural or oily-style.

---

2. Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s not recommended. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, which can lead to oily or dry cookies. Stick with a no-stir creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for best results.

---

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before scooping and baking.

---

4. How do I keep the cookies soft for days?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a piece of tortilla—this helps keep the cookies moist without altering the flavor.

---

5. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the baking time.

---

6. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. This recipe doubles easily if you want to bake a big batch for a party, event, or to freeze for later.

---

7. What kind of M&Ms work best?

Regular M&Ms or Peanut Butter M&Ms are ideal. Mini M&Ms can also be used for a more even candy distribution. Avoid using ones with fillings that might melt too much (like caramel or fudge).

---

8. Why did my cookies spread too much?

Possible reasons include overly soft butter, too little flour, or skipping the chill time. Try chilling the dough next time or adding 1 extra tablespoon of flour if the dough feels greasy.

---

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies are a delicious mix of nostalgic flavors, chewy texture, and eye-catching color. With the perfect balance of sweet and salty, and that classic peanut butter richness, they’re a go-to recipe for nearly every occasion. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat, a lunchbox surprise, or a holiday cookie platter, these cookies will always impress.

Ready to bake a batch? You’ll love how simple and satisfying this recipe is—from first mix to final bite.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: