Name: Indulge in Soft Peanut Butter M&M Cookies Anytime!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (or substitute with unsalted and add 1/4 teaspoon salt); 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Jif or Skippy recommended); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark); 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or vanilla bean paste); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (spooned and leveled); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cup Peanut Butter M&Ms (or regular M&Ms); 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (or other types)

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As the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for Jumbo Peanut Butter M&M Cookies—soft and chewy bites that are irresistibly quick to make. With no need to chill the dough, you’ll be savoring these colorful treats in under 30 minutes! Not only do these cookies bring a burst of peanut butter goodness paired with sweet chocolate, but they also make for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or a fun dessert for any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just love homemade treats, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Curious about how to whip them up? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Peanut Butter M&M Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Taste: The combination of creamy peanut butter and colorful M&Ms creates a delightful flavor explosion that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Quick Preparation: In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies ready to enjoy, making them a fantastic option for last-minute cravings or surprise guests.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to get creative! You can easily turn these into mini cookies or even chocolate-dipped versions for a gourmet twist.

Baking Buddy: This is a perfect recipe for baking with family or friends, as it’s fun and interactive. Who doesn’t love measuring and scooping cookie dough together?

Deliciously Chewy: The thick, soft texture with a slightly crisp edge is simply to die for—a true treat for any cookie lover! Plus, check out my recipe for Honey Butter Cornbread to complement your snacks!

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these heavenly cookies!

For the Cookie Base

Salted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; you can substitute with unsalted butter and add 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star ingredient for rich flavor; opt for brands like Jif or Skippy for the best results.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a delightful texture; no direct substitute suggested.
Brown Sugar – Enhances chewiness due to moisture content; both light and dark can be used interchangeably.
Eggs – Provide structure; ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; consider vanilla bean paste for an extra kick.

For the Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – The backbone for texture; spoon and level for accuracy.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents for a light and fluffy cookie.

For the Mix-Ins

Peanut Butter M&Ms – These colorful candies offer bursts of sweetness and texture; swap with regular M&Ms for more chocolate flavor if desired.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Enhance the chocolate flavor without overshadowing the peanut butter; feel free to substitute with other types of chocolate chips.

Now that you’ve gathered all the essentials for these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies, it’s time to get baking and enjoy the blissful aroma filling your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper—this ensures the cookies won’t stick and helps them bake evenly. You should be ready to create that soft, chewy texture that makes these Peanut Butter M&M Cookies a family favorite!

Step 2: Creaming
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the salted butter and both sugars (granulated and brown) using a hand mixer on medium speed. Continue creaming for about 2-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, showcasing a pale color. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful cookie texture, so keep blending until fully combined!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add in the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature) to the creamed butter mixture. Beat on low speed until all wet ingredients are thoroughly combined, achieving a smooth consistency. The aromatic peanut butter will add a wonderful flavor depth to your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This mix will help the cookies rise and become fluffy. Once combined, gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, as overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins
Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in the colorful Peanut Butter M&Ms and mini chocolate chips using a spatula. This ensures even distribution throughout your dough. You’ll immediately notice the vibrant colors popping against the dough; it adds a playful touch to your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies!

Step 6: Scoop & Bake
Using a large cookie scoop, place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture in your cookies.

Step 7: Cool
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes—this helps them set and makes transferring easier. Then, gently move them to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the aroma of your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies will surround you, tempting everyone in the house!

What to Serve with Jumbo Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies is just the beginning of your culinary adventure! Let’s create a vibrant meal experience to complement these sweet treats.

Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! The cool, creamy milk perfectly balances the rich flavors of the cookies, turning every bite into a nostalgic delight.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the palate. The natural sweetness of fruits like strawberries and bananas pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream adds a decadent touch, creating a delightful contrast with the warm cookies. Try it à la mode!
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: For those who crave more chocolate, serve with fudgy brownies. The dual textures of chewy cookies and dense brownies create an indulgently satisfying dessert board.
Mini Spinach Salad: Balancing sweetness with a light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and a hint of tartness, enhancing the overall meal without overshadowing the cookies.
Homemade Lemonade: Sweet, tangy lemonade is a bright and refreshing beverage to serve alongside. Its zesty flavor cleanses the palate and complements the warm, nutty cookie taste.

These delightful pairings not only enhance your experience but also create the perfect opportunity for sharing joyful moments over delicious homemade treats.

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to sprinkle a dash of creativity into your baking adventures with these delightful twists!

Chocolate Dipped: Dip half the baked cookies in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat that elevates the classic flavor.
Mini Cookies: Use a mini scoop to create bite-sized versions. Bake for a shorter time, about 8-10 minutes!
Birthday Version: Incorporate rainbow sprinkles into the dough for a festive flair. These will brighten up any occasion!
Classic Peanut Butter: Omit chocolate chips and M&Ms for a traditional peanut butter cookie that’s simply delicious and nostalgic.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts like peanuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite!
Oatmeal Twist: Replace a portion of the flour with oats for a chewy texture. This gives your cookies a heartier feel without losing that peanut butter yumminess.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice touch that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully! They’ll be as cozy as a hug.
Different Mix-Ins: Swap out the M&Ms for your favorite candies, like Reese’s Pieces or butterscotch chips, for a flavor that’s all your own.

These variations are sure to inspire your baking. For even more delightful recipes, be sure to check out my Peanut Butter Banana cookies or the tempting Cookies Cream Oreo dessert!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: Storing cookies in the fridge can dry them out. If needed, place them in an airtight container but consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter M&M Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, peanut butter, and eggs are at room temperature for better blending and a soft, chewy texture in your cookies.
Uniform Sizes: To achieve uniform, jumbo-sized cookies, use a large cookie scoop. This ensures even baking and a delightful look.
Top with Extras: For that bakery-style finish, add a few extra Peanut Butter M&Ms on top of the dough before baking. It enhances the appearance and adds a pop of color!
Don’t Overmix: Be cautious when combining the wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Make-Ahead Option: Feel free to prepare the cookie dough ahead of time! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you crave.

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter M&M Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you plan to save it even longer, consider freezing the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled or frozen dough onto your baking sheets, allowing a few extra minutes for baking if using frozen dough (add about 2-3 minutes to the bake time). This way, you’ll have soft, chewy cookies ready at a moment’s notice—just as delicious as if you had made them fresh!

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting peanut butter, go for creamy brands like Jif or Skippy, as they blend well into the batter. Avoid overly oily natural peanut butters, as they can affect the texture of your cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your baked Peanut Butter M&M Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), ensure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Very! To freeze your Peanut Butter M&M Cookies, first place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.

What do I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If you find that your dough is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to better bind the ingredients. Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature, which can help with blending and achieve that desired chewy texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just ensure that the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for structure. This allows everyone in your family to enjoy these delightful Peanut Butter M&M Cookies!

What are the best options for mixing in ingredients?
Feel free to get creative! While Peanut Butter M&Ms and mini chocolate chips are the stars of this recipe, you can also substitute other types of chocolate chips for more chocolaty goodness. Additionally, consider adding chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or even dried fruit for a unique twist.