Name: Halloween M&M Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup sugar; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups Halloween M&M candies; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolatey goodness)

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It’s that delightful time of year when leaves crunch underfoot and the air carries the scent of autumn. With Halloween approaching, the excitement for spooky treats is in the air! One of my all-time favorite recipes to whip up during this season is Halloween M&M Cookies. They are colorful, sweet, and just the right mix of chewy and crunchy. Plus, who can resist those vibrant M&M candies that add a splash of fun? Baking these cookies not only fills your home with tempting aromas but also brings a festive touch to your Halloween celebrations. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s get into the spirit of Halloween and learn how to make these delicious cookies together!

Ingredients for Halloween M&M Cookies

To make these festive cookies, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll gather:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups Halloween M&M candies
1 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolatey goodness)

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step!

Preparing the Dough

The key to soft and chewy Halloween M&M Cookies is how you prepare your dough. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, you can start mixing your ingredients in a big bowl.

First, combine the flour and baking soda in a separate bowl. Make sure to whisk them thoroughly so there are no clumps. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly fluffy cookie.

In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, brown sugar, and salt together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or just a good old wooden spoon if you prefer a workout!

Next, add the vanilla extract and eggs to the butter mixture. Beat them together until everything is well combined and smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Remember, overmixing can make your cookies tough, so mix until there are no visible flour streaks.

Finally, fold in the Halloween M&M candies and chocolate chips if you’re using them. The colors will add a fun pop and really fit the spooky theme.

Scooping and Baking the Cookies

Once your cookie dough is ready, it’s time to scoop! Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form balls of dough about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It’s important to leave enough space because these cookies will spread a bit while baking.

Before baking, why not sprinkle a few extra M&Ms on top of each dough ball? This little touch makes them look extra festive and inviting.

Now, pop the trays in the oven and let them bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. You want to avoid overbaking, as that will give you crispy cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. Trust me, when the timer goes off, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing!

Cooling and Storing

After you take them out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit but keeps them soft inside. Once they’re fully cooled, you can store the cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. If you somehow have any leftovers, that is!

Creative Variations

While the classic Halloween M&M Cookies are always a hit, there are plenty of fun variations you can try! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
Spooky Spices: Toss in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor—perfect for fall!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Make sure to check the package for best results.
Double Chocolate: Use chocolate cookie mix in place of all-purpose flour for an ultra-chocolatey treat.

These variations can add a unique twist to your Halloween M&M Cookies, making them even more special for family and friends!

Serving Suggestions

Now, what’s a Halloween party without creatively serving your cookies? Here are some ideas to consider:

Cookie Platter: Arrange a colorful platter with the cookies alongside other spooky treats like pumpkin-shaped candies and ghost marshmallows.
Decorative Boxes: Package a few cookies in cute Halloween-themed boxes as party favors for guests.
Hot Cocoa Pairing: Serve them with a warm cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat after a night of trick-or-treating.

A Sweet Conclusion

Making Halloween M&M Cookies is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. The vibrant colors of the M&Ms, combined with the warm aroma filling your home, make it a true autumn delight. So whether you’re making them for a spooky gathering or simply enjoying them while watching your favorite Halloween movie, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Next time you think of baking something for Halloween, remember this recipe for Halloween M&M Cookies. They are simple, delicious, and oh-so-fun to make! So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and let the baking begin! Happy Halloween!