Oh, where do I even begin with these delightful July Cookies with M&M’s? These are the cookies that bring sunshine into my kitchen, and trust me, you need a batch of these in your life. Every bite is like summer wrapped in sweetness. It all started a few years ago when I decided to bring a treat to a Fourth of July barbecue. I wanted something fun and colorful, and what better than a cookie bursting with M&M’s? The kids loved them, the adults snuck them away for themselves, and from then on, they became a summer staple in my household.
Now, these cookies are as easy to whip up as they are delicious. Picture soft, chewy cookies with crisp edges, and surprise—you have the wonderful crunch of M&M’s in every single bite. You can customize them depending on the holiday. I mean, who doesn’t want to munch on a cookie that looks festive? Plus, they’re a hit at bake sales, potlucks, or any random Tuesday afternoon when you want to treat yourself!
What’s in July Cookies with M&M’s?
Let’s break down what makes these cookies so special:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our cookie dough. I always use unbleached all-purpose flour for a rich flavor and great texture.
Baking Soda: This little ingredient helps our cookies rise perfectly. Don’t skip it; nobody likes a flat cookie!
Salt: A pinch of salt heightens all the flavors in the cookie. It’s like the secret handshake between sweet and savory!
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter because it gives me total control over the saltiness of the cookies. Plus, it creams beautifully with sugar for that perfect texture.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener gives our cookies that classic sweetness and helps them spread just the right amount while baking.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely chewiness and a hint of caramel flavor that is simply irresistible.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla can make any dessert sing. Make sure to use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Egg: Eggs are crucial for binding the dough together while adding moisture and richness to each cookie.
M&M’s: The star of our show! Use a mix of classic M&M’s or seasonal ones for fun color variations. They’re my favorite part!
Is July Cookies with M&M’s Good for You?
Let’s be honest, these cookies are a delightful treat, but they should be enjoyed in moderation. However, they do have some redeeming qualities:
Flour: All-purpose flour provides some carbs, which can be a quick energy source, especially during a summer outing.
Butter: While it’s a source of saturated fat, using unsalted butter means you’re also avoiding unnecessary sodium. Plus, it makes the cookies irresistibly rich.
Vanilla Extract: This ingredient contains antioxidants, and while its quantity in the cookies is small, it adds delicious flavor.
M&M’s: They’re loaded with sugary goodness, but let’s face it, a little bit of vibrant candy can brighten your day! Just be mindful of portion sizes since they add up quickly.
As with any treat, savor these cookies as an indulgence.
Ingredients List
This recipe yields about 24 delicious cookies:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups M&M’s
How to Make July Cookies with M&M’s?
Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s get baking! Here’s how to whip up these delicious cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that cookies bake evenly.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the flour.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.
4. Add in the vanilla extract and egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until combined.
6. Fold in the M&M’s gently until they’re evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop mounds of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked—don’t worry, they’ll firm up as they cool!
9. Let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking Tips for July Cookies
Here are some fun ways to elevate your cookie game:
– **Mix-ins:** Try adding chopped nuts, coconut flake, or even some chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
– **Chill the dough:** If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and can improve the cookie’s texture.
– **Storage:** Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container. They keep well for about a week, though I doubt they’ll last that long!
– **Freezing:** You can also freeze the cookie dough balls and bake them fresh whenever the craving hits. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if baking directly from the freezer.
I really hope you give these July Cookies with M&M’s a try! They’re such a delightful addition to any summer gathering or just a cozy day at home. Trust me, you won’t regret it! If you do whip up a batch, feel free to share your experience! Happy baking!
