Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies

There’s something undeniably delightful about cookies, especially when they’re small-batch and loaded with colorful mini M&M’s. These Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the temptation of an entire dozen. With their chewy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and vibrant bursts of color from the mini M&M’s, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Perfect portion size – yields just enough for a small treat.
• Easy-to-follow instructions that make baking a breeze.
• Rich chocolate flavor paired with the crunch of mini M&M’s.
• Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Great for satisfying chocolate cravings without overindulging.

The Essentials

• 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon (68g) all-purpose flour – the foundation of your cookie dough.
• 2 teaspoons natural cocoa powder – adds a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
• 4 tablespoons (2oz) unsalted butter very soft – ensures a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – for sweetness and texture.
• 1 tablespoon (13g) brown sugar – adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 large egg yolk – binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon milk – helps to create a soft, chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup mini M&M’s or chocolate chips – the colorful stars of the cookie.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise measurements.
• Baking sheet – for placing and baking the cookies.
• Parchment paper – optional but recommended for easy cleanup.
• Rubber spatula – perfect for mixing and folding in the M&M’s.

From Start to Finish: Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream together the very soft unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Egg Yolk and Wet Ingredients

Add the egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

Step 6: Fold in Mini M&M’s

Gently fold in the mini M&M’s or chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. This will ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 7: Form the Cookies

Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should have about 6-8 cookies, depending on how large you make them.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies warm, or store them for later!

Substitutions by Category

• Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
• Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder can be used for a milder chocolate flavor.
• Butter: Coconut oil can be substituted for dairy-free cookies.
• Sugars: Coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a less refined option.
• Egg: For an egg-free version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the egg yolk.

What Could Go Wrong

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold butter – make sure your butter is very soft for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough – this can lead to tough cookies.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly – precision is key in baking.
• Baking at the wrong temperature – ensure your oven is correctly calibrated.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat cookies in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies Q&A

Can I make these cookies without chocolate?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cocoa powder and increase the flour by an equal amount. You can still add mini M&M’s for sweetness and color.

What if I don’t have mini M&M’s?

No problem! You can substitute with regular-sized chocolate chips, chopped chocolate, or even nuts for a different texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust baking times slightly if you use multiple baking sheets.

How can I make these cookies even more decadent?

Try adding a handful of chopped nuts, a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top once they cool.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe for Small-batch Chocolate Mini M&M Cookies at your fingertips, it’s time to get baking! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a treat for friends, these cookies will surely bring joy to your day. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and let the vibrant colors of mini M&M’s brighten your baking adventures. Happy baking!