Valentine’s Day M&M Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Valentine’s Day is a time to express love and appreciation, and what better way to do so than with a batch of delightful Valentine’s Day M&M Cookies? These soft, chewy cookies are filled with colorful pink, red, and white M&M candies, making them the perfect treat for the occasion. Whether you’re baking for your partner, family, or friends, these cookies are sure to warm hearts and bring smiles. Their vibrant colors and irresistible taste make them a wonderful symbol of affection.
A Brief History
Cookies have been cherished for centuries, originating as small, flat cakes in Persia as early as the 7th century. The modern chocolate chip cookie, which serves as the base for these festive treats, was invented by Ruth Graves Wakefield in the 1930s. Adding M&M candies became popular later, offering a fun twist on the classic recipe. These Valentine’s-themed cookies continue the tradition of creativity, blending sweetness with the festive spirit of love.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Mix-Ins:
1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 1/4 cups (200g) Valentine’s Day M&Ms (red, pink, and white)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until creamy and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until fully combined.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and 1 cup of M&Ms, reserving some for topping.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Add Extra M&Ms: Press a few reserved M&Ms onto the tops of the dough balls for a festive appearance.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly undercooked but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving and Presentation
Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or wrap them in cellophane with a red ribbon for gifting. Pair them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a cozy treat.
Why Lovers Adore These Cookies
Valentine’s Day M&M Cookies are more than just delicious treats—they’re a token of love. The vibrant colors symbolize passion, joy, and warmth, while the act of baking represents thoughtfulness and care. Sharing these cookies with a loved one, whether over a romantic date or a family gathering, strengthens bonds and creates sweet memories.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day M&M Cookies are a timeless and heartwarming way to celebrate love. Their rich flavors, festive colors, and soft texture make them irresistible to all ages. Baking these cookies isn’t just about the final product—it’s about the joy of creating something special for the people you cherish most. Share the love this Valentine’s Day with a homemade treat that speaks from the heart!