Yummy Brown Butter M&M Cookies

If you thought M&M cookies couldn’t get any better, wait until you try them with brown butter. This game-changing ingredient adds a deep, nutty richness that enhances the sweet, buttery base of classic cookies. The toasty notes from the browned butter make every bite more flavorful, taking a childhood favorite to gourmet levels.

M&Ms bring the fun factor with their bright, candy-coated shells and pockets of chocolatey goodness. They add a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness, contrasting perfectly with the warm, buttery dough. The combination of textures makes these cookies irresistible, from the crispy edges to the soft, chewy centers.

These cookies are easy to make and even easier to devour. The brown butter elevates them without adding extra work, and the short chilling time ensures a thick, bakery-style cookie. Whether for a party, a holiday, or a simple sweet craving, these Brown Butter M&M Cookies will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup M&Ms, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)

How to Make Brown Butter M&M Cookies

1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir continuously as it foams and begins to darken. After about 4–5 minutes, it will turn golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.

2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and tender.

4. Add Chocolate & M&Ms: Gently fold in the M&Ms and chocolate chips (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and keeps the cookies from spreading too much when baking.

6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Decorate & Bake: For a bakery-style look, press a few extra M&Ms onto the tops of each dough ball. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look just slightly underbaked.

8. Cool & Serve: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or store them for later.

Tips & Tricks

• For Extra Chewiness: Underbake the cookies slightly and let them firm up on the tray.
• No Chilling? If you’re in a rush, you can bake immediately, but chilled dough makes thicker cookies.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Variations

• Peanut Butter Lovers: Swap out half the butter for peanut butter for an extra nutty flavor.
• Holiday Fun: Use seasonal M&Ms for a festive twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

✔️ Buttery, nutty flavor from the brown butter
✔️ Soft, chewy centers with crispy edges
✔️ Perfectly colorful and fun for all ages
✔️ Super easy to make and customize

Pinterest Pro Tip

Save this recipe for your next baking adventure. These cookies are perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in. #MMCookies #BrownButter #CookieLovers