Soft Chewy M&M Cookies: 5 Secrets for Irresistible Treats

January 17, 2026

Soft Chewy M&M Cookies have been a beloved treat in my household since childhood. I remember baking with my mom, the warm aroma of melting chocolate filling the air while colorful M&M’s danced in the batter. These cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet chocolatey flavors and a tender, chewy texture. Every bite brings back those cherished memories, making them a go-to recipe for family gatherings or cozy nights in. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious treat that will make everyone smile, look no further. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

Perfectly chewy and soft texture
Quick prep time of just 15 minutes
Great for kids and adults alike
Colorful M&M’s make them festive
Homemade soft M&M cookies are better than store-bought
Versatile recipe for any occasion

Ingredients for Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

Here’s everything you need for these delightful cookies:

1½ cups (188g) all purpose flour – the base for a tender texture
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps cookies rise
½ teaspoon baking soda – adds a slight crisp
¼ teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool) – key for chewy texture
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – sweetness
⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar (lightly packed) – adds moisture and depth
1 large egg – binds the ingredients
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – for flavor
1½ cups (total) M&M’s and chocolate chips – about 1 cup M&M’s and ½ cup chocolate chips

How to Make Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy.
Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
Step 5: On low speed, gradually add in the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until the flour is fully incorporated without overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Gently stir in about 1 cup of the M&M’s and chocolate chips into the dough. Reserve the remaining candies for topping.
Step 7: Portion 2-tablespoon-sized dough balls and place them on a plate. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to one hour. This step is crucial for achieving soft chewy cookies.
Step 8: Press about 5 reserved M&M’s or chocolate chips on top of each mound of dough. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading.
Step 9: Bake for 9-12 minutes until the edges are set and the centers are slightly underdone to maintain softness. For crispier edges, bake an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks. They will firm up while keeping a gooey center.

Irresistible Soft Chewy M&M Cookies with vibrant M&M's on a cooling rack

Pro Tips for the Best Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Chilling the dough is vital for thick, chewy cookies.
Don’t overmix the dough to keep it tender.
For an extra soft center, underbake slightly.

What’s the secret to perfect Soft Chewy M&M Cookies?

The secret lies in chilling the dough before baking. This prevents excessive spreading and helps maintain the chewy texture that everyone loves.

Can I make Soft Chewy M&M Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Soft Chewy M&M Cookies?

Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry cookies. Also, ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top to elevate the flavor!

Delicious Soft Chewy M&M Cookies stacked on a plate, ready to be enjoyed

Nutrition Facts for Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

Per serving (1 cookie):

Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

After cooling, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Chewy M&M Cookies

What makes M&M cookies chewy?

The combination of softened butter and the right baking time creates a chewy texture. Make sure to chill the dough for the best results.

Can I substitute M&Ms with other candies?

Yes! You can replace M&Ms with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for delicious alternatives. Just ensure you adjust the quantities accordingly.

Why are my M&M cookies soft?

If your cookies are too soft, it could be due to underbaking. Check the edges; they should be set while the centers remain slightly underdone for that chewy effect.

Variations of Soft Chewy M&M Cookies You Can Try

Experiment with different mix-ins for your cookies. Try using white chocolate chips, peanut butter M&Ms, or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist. You can also make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend!