Rainbow M&M Cookies Recipe

The Best Rainbow M&M Cookies Recipe for Sweet Smiles

Sweet, buttery, and packed with colorful delight, these rainbow m&m cookies bring pure joy to every bite.

Bursting with vibrant chocolate candies nestled in a soft, chewy base, the recipe promises a delightful treat for all ages.

Chocolate chip cookies just got a playful upgrade with these eye-catching sweets.

Each cookie becomes a canvas of rainbow-colored m&ms that peek through golden edges.

The simple ingredients blend together effortlessly, creating a dessert that sparks smiles and childhood memories.

Crisp on the outside and tender inside, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

You’ll fall in love with this easy-to-make treat that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of color and sweetness.

Ingredients for Colorful Rainbow M&M Cookies

Fats and Sweeteners:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a soft, tender cookie texture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie's golden color and chewy consistency.
Binding and Flavor Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the cookie dough.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure of the cookies.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread during baking.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Mix-Ins:
  • M&Ms, Chocolate Chips: Add colorful bursts of sweetness and fun texture to the cookies.

Steps for Making Rainbow M&M Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350°F and grab a baking sheet.

Line it with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Create A Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, whip butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until they transform into a fluffy, light mixture that looks like soft clouds.

Step 3: Add Moisture And Flavor

Pour in eggs and vanilla extract.

Blend everything until perfectly combined and smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Gently whisk these dry ingredients together, then slowly incorporate them into the wet mixture.

Step 5: Sprinkle In Colorful Goodness

Tenderly fold M&Ms and chocolate chips into the cookie dough.

Make sure they’re evenly distributed for maximum color and flavor.

Step 6: Shape And Prepare Cookies

Scoop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

Softly press down each cookie ball to create a slightly flattened shape.

Step 7: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until cookie edges turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 8: Cool And Enjoy

Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before devouring these rainbow treats.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Rainbow Cookies

  • Reserve a handful of M&Ms to press onto the top of each cookie dough ball before baking for a more colorful, visually appealing result.
  • Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain the cookies' shape and prevent excessive spreading.
  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother, more evenly mixed dough that creates softer, more consistent cookies.
  • Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, placing a slice of bread inside to keep them soft and fresh.

Swaps and Variations for Rainbow M&M Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same soft cookie texture while making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips and M&Ms for a plant-based alternative.
  • Nutty Chocolate Explosion: Mix in chopped almonds or pecans with the M&Ms for added crunch and depth of flavor, creating a more complex cookie experience.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of granulated sugar, and reduce the overall sugar content while maintaining the cookie's delicious taste.

Serving Rainbow M&M Cookies

  • Colorful Party Platter: Arrange cookies on a vibrant platter with scattered extra M&Ms for a festive, eye-catching dessert presentation.
  • Sweet Milk Pairing: Serve alongside cold glasses of whole milk or chocolate milk to enhance the cookie's rich, sweet flavor profile.
  • Ice Cream Sandwich Twist: Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of vanilla or rainbow sherbet between two cooled cookies.
  • Kids' Dessert Bar: Set up a fun cookie decorating station with additional M&Ms, sprinkles, and small chocolate drizzles for interactive family enjoyment.

How to Store Rainbow M&M Cookies

  • Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap cookie dough balls in plastic wrap, place in freezer bag. Freeze up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time.
  • Place completely cooled cookies in freezer-safe container. Separate layers with wax paper. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
  • Keep cookies in sealed container with tight lid. Consume within 3-4 days. Place small piece of bread to maintain softness and prevent drying.

FAQs

  • Are M&Ms the best choice for this cookie recipe?

M&Ms provide vibrant colors and delightful chocolate crunch, making them perfect for creating a fun, visually appealing cookie that kids and adults will love.

  • Can I use other chocolate candies instead of M&Ms?

While M&Ms work best for color and texture, you can substitute with similar chocolate candies like Smarties or chopped chocolate bars, though the rainbow effect might be less pronounced.

  • How do I prevent M&Ms from breaking while mixing?

Fold M&Ms gently into the dough at the end of mixing and use a light hand to maintain their shape and prevent crushing during the mixing process.

  • Why should I flatten the cookie dough balls before baking?

Flattening helps the cookies spread evenly, creating a uniform shape and ensuring consistent baking across the entire batch of cookies.

Rainbow M&M Cookies, Brighten Up Your Day

  • Burst with Color: Packed with vibrant M&Ms, these cookies transform ordinary baking into a delightful visual feast that catches everyone's eye and sparks joy.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Requiring minimal prep and basic ingredients, this recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels to create delicious treats without complicated techniques.
  • Kid-Friendly Baking Adventure: Mixing colorful candies into cookie dough becomes an exciting activity that children can help with, making it a perfect family bonding experience.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate candies, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks, parties, and casual gatherings.
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Rainbow M&M Cookies Recipe

Rainbow M&M Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Colorful rainbow M&M cookies bring pure joy to classic chocolate chip treats with unexpected candy crunch. Sweet memories and playful baking collide when you bake these delightful, sprinkle-studded cookies that promise smiles with every delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups rainbow m&ms
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs

Leavening and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Additions:

  • 0.5 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for even cooking and easy removal.
  2. Combine softened butter with granulated and brown sugars, whipping until the mixture becomes airy and pale, creating a smooth base for the cookies.
  3. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to ensure a uniform mixture that will provide moisture and rich flavor.
  4. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate container to eliminate potential lumps and distribute leavening agents evenly.
  5. Gradually integrate dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
  6. Gently fold colorful M&Ms and optional chocolate chips throughout the dough, ensuring even distribution for a vibrant, tasty result.
  7. Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded portions onto the prepared baking sheet, lightly pressing each mound to create a slight disk shape.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the centers appear slightly soft but set.
  9. Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling and crisp edges.

Notes

  • Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and create thicker, chewier cookies.
  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for smoother, more evenly mixed cookie dough.
  • For gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the same texture.
  • Customize the M&M colors for seasonal themes like red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 155
  • Sugar: 13 g
  • Sodium: 75 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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