Introduction
There’s something absolutely delightful about baking cookies, especially when they are as cheerful and colorful as these Valentine M&M Cookies! Perfectly soft and chewy, with a sweet burst of chocolatey goodness in every bite, these treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying yourself over a warm cup of tea. The bright red and pink M&Ms add a festive touch, making them an ideal treat for your Valentine’s Day celebration or any occasion that calls for a little sweetness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Valentine’s M&Ms
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the vibrant Valentine’s M&Ms, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flair, sprinkle a few extra M&Ms on top of the cookies just before baking. If you prefer a softer cookie, be sure to watch them closely as they bake and remove them as soon as the edges turn golden. Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugars, make sure to use softened butter to achieve that light and fluffy texture. If you forget to take your butter out ahead of time, you can soften it quickly by cutting it into small cubes. Always be careful when combining the dry and wet ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can result in tougher cookies.
FAQ
Can I use different types of M&Ms?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite flavor or seasonal M&Ms to add a personal touch to your cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are slightly golden, and the center appears a bit soft. They will set as they cool, ensuring a perfectly chewy texture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Conclusion
These Valentine M&M Cookies are sure to bring joyful smiles and sweet moments to any gathering. With their festive colors and delightful flavors, they are a simple yet charming way to show affection. Whether you’re baking for your special someone or sharing with friends, enjoy the process, the aromas wafting through your kitchen, and, of course, the delicious cookies themselves!