Lucky Charms Cookies

There’s something undeniably magical about Lucky Charms Cookies. They capture the whimsy and nostalgia of the iconic cereal in a soft, chewy cookie form, bursting with those colorful marshmallow pieces we all love. If you’ve been craving a treat that’s both playful and packed with flavor, these cookies deliver in every bite. With a tender crumb, a hint of vanilla, and the crunch of crushed cereal, these cookies are a delightful twist on classic baking. Let’s dive into what makes these Lucky Charms Cookies truly special and walk through how to create them in your own kitchen.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Lucky Charms Cookies aren’t just your average cookie. What sets this recipe apart is the perfect marriage of textures and flavors: the buttery richness of the cookie dough combined with the sweet, chewy marshmallow pieces and the crisp, slightly toasted cereal bits. The optional Marshmallow Fluff adds an extra layer of softness and marshmallow flavor that elevates the cookie to a whole new level. Plus, a touch of green food coloring can be added for a fun, festive look that’s sure to brighten up any cookie tray. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a nostalgic treat, these cookies bring out the kid in all of us.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/4 cup shortening (optional, or substitute with 1/2 cup additional butter)
• 2 large eggs + 1 yolk
• 1/4 cup Marshmallow Fluff (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup crushed Lucky Charms cereal pieces only
• 1 cup marshmallow pieces from Lucky Charms cereal, plus more for topping
• Green food coloring (optional)

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowls – for combining your dry and wet ingredients separately
• Electric mixer or stand mixer – to cream butter and sugar smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Rubber spatula – to fold in cereal and marshmallow pieces gently
• Baking sheets – lined with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup
• Cooling rack – to allow cookies to cool evenly without getting soggy
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for evenly sized cookies

Cook Lucky Charms Cookies Like This

Step 1: Prep Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed and your cookies rise perfectly.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the unsalted butter, optional shortening, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Marshmallow Fluff, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs and extra yolk, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the Marshmallow Fluff and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The fluff adds a subtle marshmallow flavor and extra moisture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Fold in Lucky Charms Pieces

Gently fold in the crushed cereal pieces and the marshmallow pieces. If you want a pop of color, add a few drops of green food coloring and gently swirl it through the dough. Be careful not to overmix and break apart the cereal too much.

Step 6: Scoop and Top

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Press a few extra marshmallow pieces on top of each cookie for a fun, colorful presentation.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Year-Round Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-marshmallow combo.
• Peanut Butter Magic: Substitute 1/2 cup butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
• Festive Holiday Edition: Use red and green food coloring and sprinkle colored sugar on top.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter and eggs with vegan substitutes and use vegan marshmallow fluff.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your butter isn’t too soft or melted; chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Marshmallows Melt Completely: Add marshmallow pieces towards the end of mixing and avoid overbaking to keep them intact.
• Cookies Are Dry or Crumbly: Don’t overbake; remove from the oven as soon as edges turn golden. Also, don’t overmix the dough.
• Cereal Becomes Soggy: Fold cereal in gently and bake immediately after mixing to preserve crunch.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store your Lucky Charms Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the cookies.

Quick Q&A

Can I use just butter instead of shortening?

Absolutely! You can replace the shortening with an additional 1/2 cup of butter. This will add extra richness to the cookies, though the texture may be slightly less tender.

Is Marshmallow Fluff necessary?

Marshmallow Fluff is optional but highly recommended as it enhances the marshmallow flavor and adds moisture, making the cookies chewier and more decadent.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain the structure and texture of the cookies.

How do I keep the marshmallow pieces from melting too much during baking?

Fold in the marshmallow pieces gently at the very end, and avoid overbaking. Adding some marshmallows on top right before baking also helps them stay visible and vibrant.

Reader Favorites

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies by Sally’s Baking Addiction – A timeless recipe with perfect texture and flavor.
• Soft Baked Oatmeal Cookies by Pinch of Yum – Chewy, wholesome, and loaded with oats.
• One-Bowl Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies by Minimalist Baker – Simple, quick, and dairy-free.
• Birthday Cake Cookies by Sally’s Baking Addiction – Fun and festive with sprinkles and a dreamy texture.

That’s a Wrap

Lucky Charms Cookies bring a nostalgic cereal experience right into your cookie jar. With their bright marshmallow pops and perfectly chewy dough, they’re sure to delight kids and adults alike. Whether you make them for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive party snack, these cookies make baking joyful and whimsical. Remember, the magic is in the mix – a little patience, a gentle hand, and a sprinkle of fun will give you cookies that taste like a lucky charm indeed.

Ready to bring a bit of cereal-inspired joy to your kitchen? Grab your ingredients and start baking these irresistibly sweet and colorful Lucky Charms Cookies today!

Share on Pinterest