Festive MM Xmas Cookies

Christmas is more than just a holiday; it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of the fireplace, the scent of pine needles, and, of course, the taste of freshly baked cookies. And what cookie is more festive and universally loved than an M&M Christmas Cookie? These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a burst of holiday cheer in every bite, studded with colorful M&Ms that bring a smile to everyone’s face. They’re perfect for leaving out for Santa, gifting to neighbors, or simply enjoying with your loved ones around the tree. They bring back memories of Christmas past and create new ones for the future.

I’ve been baking these cookies for as long as I can remember. My grandmother first taught me the secrets to perfectly soft and chewy Christmas cookies, and I’ve been tweaking and perfecting the recipe ever since. This version is foolproof, even for beginner bakers, and the results are always crowd-pleasing. M&M Christmas cookies are a classic that never goes out of style! The versatility of festive sprinkles allows for easy customization, making each batch unique. Let’s dive into making these irresistible treats together!

Ingredients for the Perfect M&M Christmas Cookies

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookies. I recommend using unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture. Flour provides structure by forming gluten when mixed with liquids. Too much gluten can lead to tough cookies, so avoid overmixing.
• Baking Soda: Our leavening agent, responsible for creating a light and airy texture. Baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like brown sugar) to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing the cookies to rise.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. A pinch of salt is essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient.
• Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for optimal creaming. The butter should be soft enough to easily cream with the sugar, creating a smooth and even batter. Butter also adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a crispy edge. Granulated sugar also contributes to the cookies’ overall structure.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of molasses flavor. Pack the brown sugar firmly when measuring to ensure accurate results.
• Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness. Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• M&M’s (Christmas Colors): The star of the show! Use Christmas-colored M&Ms for a festive touch. You can also use other variations like peanut M&Ms or dark chocolate M&Ms.

Substitution Tip: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar and a tablespoon of molasses per cup. If you prefer a vegan option, use vegan butter and an egg replacement like flax eggs.

Expert Tips for M&M Christmas Cookie Perfection

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too thin while baking. Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious cookie.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly cookies. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper ensures that the cookies won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup. Parchment paper also helps to distribute heat evenly, preventing the cookies from burning on the bottom.
• Evenly Sized Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to ensure that all of your cookies are the same size. This will help them bake evenly and create a more visually appealing batch.
• Add Extra M&Ms: For an extra festive touch, press additional M&Ms onto the tops of the cookies right after they come out of the oven. This will create a beautiful, colorful presentation.

Storage and Creative Cookie Variations

• Storage: Store your M&M Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months.
• Freezing the Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough for later use. Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Cookie Variations: Try adding chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) to the dough for a nutty flavor. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or chunks. For a more intense chocolate flavor, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.

FAQ: Your M&M Christmas Cookie Questions Answered

Why are my M&M cookies flat?

Flat cookies are often caused by using butter that is too soft or by not chilling the dough. Make sure your butter is at room temperature but still slightly firm. Chilling the dough allows the butter to solidify, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. Overmixing the dough can also contribute to flat cookies, as it develops too much gluten.

Can I use different types of M&Ms?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and colors of M&Ms. Peanut M&Ms, dark chocolate M&Ms, or even seasonal varieties can add a unique twist to your cookies. Consider using pastel-colored M&Ms for Easter or spooky-themed M&Ms for Halloween.

How do I keep my cookies soft?

To keep your M&M Christmas cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread will absorb excess moisture, preventing the cookies from drying out. Avoid overbaking the cookies, as this can also lead to dryness. Underbaking slightly will ensure a softer, chewier texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps to bind the ingredients together and create a similar texture to traditional cookies. Be sure to check all of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

What is the best way to measure flour?

The best way to measure flour is to use the “spoon and level” method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it is overflowing, then level off the excess with a straight-edged utensil. Avoid scooping the flour directly from the bag, as this can compress the flour and result in too much flour in your recipe.

Why are my cookies hard?

Hard cookies are often caused by overbaking or using too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour accurately and avoid overbaking the cookies. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer time can also help to prevent the cookies from becoming too hard.

Share the Holiday Cheer!

And there you have it – the perfect recipe for M&M Christmas cookies that are sure to bring joy to your holiday season! Whether you’re baking them for Santa, sharing them with loved ones, or simply indulging in a festive treat, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and make them your own. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious cookies!

Now it’s your turn! Bake a batch of these delightful cookies and share your creations with us on social media using #MMChristmasCookies. We can’t wait to see your festive masterpieces! For more holiday baking inspiration, check out our other recipes for Gingerbread Men, Peanut Butter Blossoms, and Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing.

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