The holiday season is synonymous with festive cheer, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious treats. One of the quintessential holiday delights is M&M Christmas Cookies. These delightful cookies not only taste heavenly but also add a splash of color to your festive spread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are a breeze to make and are sure to become a holiday favorite. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect batch of M&M Christmas Cookies, from ingredients to serving suggestions and more.
Ingredients for M&M Christmas Cookies
Before you dive into baking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these festive cookies:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups Christmas M&Ms (1 cup reserved for topping)
Having all your ingredients ready and measured out not only makes the baking process smoother but also ensures you don’t miss out on any key components.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these delectable cookies is as easy as following these step-by-step instructions. Let’s get started!
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix well and set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just blended. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in 1 cup of Christmas M&Ms by hand, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Cool and Decorate: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cookies are still warm, gently press the remaining M&Ms into the tops for a festive touch.
Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of your holiday treats is important, especially if you’re mindful of your diet during the festive season. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts per cookie, assuming you make approximately 24 cookies:
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 2g
These cookies are a delightful indulgence, perfect for enjoying in moderation as part of your holiday celebrations.
How to Serve M&M Christmas Cookies
M&M Christmas Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your holiday festivities. Their vibrant colors and delightful crunch make them an appealing addition to any holiday celebration. Below are some creative ideas to ensure that these cookies are a hit during your holiday gatherings:
1. Cookie Platters
One of the most visually appealing ways to serve M&M Christmas Cookies is by arranging them on a festive platter. Use a large, decorative tray or a holiday-themed platter to create an inviting display. To elevate the presentation:
- Combine with Other Treats: Mix the M&M cookies with a selection of other holiday favorites such as gingerbread men, classic sugar cookies, and rich peppermint bark. The combination of textures and flavors will entice your guests and provide a variety of treats to enjoy.
- Garnish with Festive Accents: Add seasonal touches like holly leaves, gold and silver sprinkles, or even small ornaments around the cookies to create a more festive atmosphere. A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the cookies can also give them a snowy effect, making them look even more appealing.
- Labeling: Consider placing small, decorative labels next to each type of cookie to inform guests about their flavors or any special ingredients, especially if any are gluten-free or nut-free.
2. Gift Boxes
M&M Christmas Cookies make for delightful homemade gifts, and presenting them in decorative packaging can add a personal touch. Here’s how to create impressive gift boxes:
- Choose the Right Packaging: Look for decorative boxes, tins, or even mason jars that align with your holiday theme. Be sure to select containers that are food-safe and can hold the cookies without crushing them.
- Line with Parchment Paper: Before filling the boxes, line them with festive parchment paper to protect the cookies and add a charming flair. You can use paper that features holiday motifs, colors, or patterns that reflect the season.
- Personal Touch: Include a handwritten note or a recipe card with your cookies. This not only personalizes the gift but also shares the joy of baking with others. You could even write a little message wishing them a happy holiday season.
- Add Extras: Consider adding a few other treats or small gifts to the box, such as a packet of hot cocoa mix, holiday-themed tea, or a festive ornament, to create a more substantial gift.
3. Dessert Table
M&M Christmas Cookies can shine as part of a larger dessert table at holiday parties or family gatherings. Here are some tips to make your dessert table a showstopper:
- Create a Balanced Display: Ensure a variety of desserts to cater to different tastes. Pair your cookies with rich chocolate desserts, fruit tarts, or creamy cheesecakes. The M&M cookies’ vibrant colors will provide a perfect contrast to the other treats.
- Hot Cocoa or Coffee Station: Set up a hot cocoa bar or a coffee station nearby, complete with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and flavored syrups. This pairing encourages guests to enjoy a warm beverage alongside their cookies, creating a cozy winter atmosphere.
- Themed Decor: Use tablecloths and decorations that reflect a holiday theme, such as red, green, gold, or silver. Consider using multi-tiered stands for desserts to create an eye-catching vertical display that showcases your M&M cookies prominently.
- Interactive Elements: Encourage guests to customize their dessert experience by providing toppings for the cookies or drinks. For example, set out bowls of crushed candies, sprinkles, or even flavored icing for guests to use as they wish.
4. Cookie Exchange
Participating in a cookie exchange is a fun and festive way to share your M&M Christmas Cookies while also sampling a variety of treats from fellow bakers. Here’s how to make the most of this event:
- Presentation Matters: When bringing your cookies to the exchange, consider how you present them. Use a decorative tin or box that reflects the holiday spirit, and make sure the cookies are neatly packed to maintain their shape.
- Recipe Cards: Include recipe cards with your cookies to share the joy of baking. This allows others to recreate your delicious M&M cookies at home, spreading the love even further.
- Engagement: Use the cookie exchange as an opportunity to connect with others. Share stories about your baking process, the inspiration behind your cookies, or even your favorite holiday memories. This interaction can enhance the sense of community and celebration.
- Sampling: Make the most of the exchange by creating a sampling station. After everyone has exchanged cookies, allow time for guests to taste each other’s creations. This not only adds a fun element but also inspires new baking ideas for the future.
By serving M&M Christmas Cookies in these diverse and engaging ways, you can enhance your holiday festivities and create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether enjoyed at a party, gifted to loved ones, or shared in a cookie exchange, these colorful treats are sure to spread joy and cheer throughout the season.
Additional Tips for Perfect M&M Christmas Cookies
To ensure your M&M Christmas Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:
Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial when baking cookies, as it allows for better incorporation of the ingredients. Cold butter can result in a lumpy batter, while cold eggs can cause the mixture to seize up. To bring your butter to room temperature, simply take it out of the fridge about 30 to 60 minutes before you begin baking, depending on the temperature of your kitchen. The butter should be soft enough to press your finger into it but not melted. For eggs, you can speed up the process by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes. This ensures your batter will be smooth and creamy, leading to a tender and well-mixed cookie.
Chill the Dough
Chilling the cookie dough is one of the simplest yet most effective tricks to enhance your M&M Christmas Cookies. When you chill the dough for about 30 minutes, the fats in the butter firm up, which helps prevent the cookies from spreading excessively in the oven. This results in thicker, chewier cookies with a beautiful texture. Additionally, chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. If you’re short on time, even a 15-minute chill can make a difference, but longer is always better. If you plan to chill the dough for an extended period, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from your refrigerator.
M&M Variations
One of the joys of baking M&M Christmas Cookies is the ability to customize them to your taste. While classic milk chocolate M&Ms are a favorite, consider incorporating different varieties for a unique twist. Peanut M&Ms add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while crispy M&Ms introduce a satisfying texture contrast. You can also explore seasonal options, like white chocolate or peppermint M&Ms, to give your cookies a festive flair. Mixing and matching types can create a vibrant display of colors and flavors, making your cookies not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Don’t hesitate to get creative—combine M&Ms with nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate your cookie game.
Storage
Proper storage is essential for keeping your M&M Christmas Cookies fresh and flavorful. To maximize their shelf life, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture, ensuring they stay enjoyable for up to a week. If you find yourself with a large batch (or simply want to save some for later), freezing is a great option. To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes, and you’ll have delicious cookies that taste freshly baked.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your M&M Christmas Cookies not only look festive but also taste amazing, making them a delightful treat for your holiday gatherings and a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Happy baking!
FAQs About M&M Christmas Cookies
Can I use different types of M&Ms?
Absolutely! While Christmas M&Ms add a festive touch, you can use any type of M&Ms you prefer, such as peanut, almond, or mini M&Ms. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your preference and the size of the candies.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free M&M Christmas Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, try chilling the dough before baking or adding a tablespoon or two of additional flour to the dough. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Conclusion
M&M Christmas Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. With their colorful appearance and irresistibly chewy texture, they’re sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cookie exchange, or simply to enjoy with loved ones, these cookies are a perfect choice. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready to spread holiday cheer. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the joyous process of making these festive cookies. Happy baking!
