Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie that practically melts in your mouth, bursting with the rich flavor of peanut butter and the delightful crunch of colorful M&M’s. These soft chewy peanut butter M&M cookies are not just any treat; they are a hug for your taste buds, a sweet serenade to your senses, and an invite to nostalgia. Picture yourself on a lazy Sunday afternoon, with the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, making even the grumpiest family member crack a smile.

Now, let’s be real: who doesn’t love a cookie that can turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary? Whether it’s a rainy day, a family gathering, or just because it’s Tuesday (and Tuesdays deserve cookies too), these easy irresistible treats will steal the show—and maybe even your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These soft chewy peanut butter M&M cookies are incredibly simple to whip up in under 30 minutes
- The harmonious blend of creamy peanut butter and crunchy chocolate creates an unforgettable flavor explosion
- Their vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- These cookies are versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits
I still remember the look on my niece’s face when I made these cookies for her birthday party; her eyes sparkled brighter than the candles on her cake!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use fresh flour for the best texture; sift it for lighter cookies.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that chewy texture we love.
Brown Sugar: A must for depth of flavor; go for light brown sugar for a softer result.
Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy works—pick your preference for extra texture!
Butter: Softened unsalted butter gives richness; avoid margarine for better flavor.
Eggs: One large egg binds everything together beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
Baking Soda: This is essential for that fluffy lift—don’t skip it!
M&M’s Candy: Colorful chocolate candies add fun and sweetness; feel free to use mini ones!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. Your kitchen will fill with anticipation as it warms up.
Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Let that sweet aroma engulf you.
Add the Peanut Butter and Egg: Mix in creamy peanut butter until well combined. Crack in one egg followed by vanilla extract—this combo is about to elevate your cookie game!
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour with baking soda. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!
Add M&M’s and Fold Gently: Gently fold in those vibrant M&M’s, letting their colors shine bright among the dough.
Scoop and Bake!: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto lined baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges turn golden but centers remain soft—trust me on this one!
Let cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks—if you can resist eating them straight off the tray!
These soft chewy peanut butter M&M cookies are more than just dessert; they’re little bits of joy wrapped in sweetness. Enjoy them alone or share them with loved ones—they’ll never know how easy they were to make!
Content:
The secret to soft chewy cookies is not overmixing the dough; mix until just combined. I learned this the hard way after baking a batch that resembled hockey pucks instead of cookies.
Using room temperature ingredients helps achieve that perfect texture, as cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Believe me, I once tried to use straight-from-the-fridge butter and regretted it.
Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes! This step enhances flavors and prevents overly spread cookies, which I’ve done too many times.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugars until fluffy. Then, add eggs and vanilla before gradually mixing in the dry ingredients. This sequence ensures a well-blended cookie dough that bakes evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap M&Ms for chocolate chips or nuts! You can also sprinkle sea salt on top for an extra flavor punch. Personalizing your cookie recipe makes it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven softness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always preheat your oven before baking for even cooking
- Avoid overbaking; soft cookies continue to firm up outside the oven
- Experiment with different M&M flavors for fun variations!
Baking these cookies reminds me of my childhood when I’d sneak into the kitchen while my mom baked. Those warm scents filled our home with love.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture to your soft chewy cookies.
How do I make my cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for depth.
What if my dough is too sticky?
Chilling the dough will help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape.

Deliciously Soft Peanut Butter M&M Cookies
Indulge in the heavenly taste of soft chewy peanut butter M&M cookies! These delightful treats combine creamy peanut butter and colorful M&M’s, creating a nostalgic flavor experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a cozy day at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your taste buds and smiles to your loved ones.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup M&M's
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in creamy peanut butter, then add the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in M&M's gently.
- Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg