Big Chocolate M&M Valentine’s Day Cookies

Big chocolate M&M Valentine’s Day cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with rich chocolate flavor and festive M&Ms. These oversized cookies are perfect for celebrating love and friendship, making them a great treat for parties, gifting, or indulging in a sweet moment with someone special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: The colorful Valentine’s Day M&Ms add a playful touch.
• Big and Chewy: These oversized cookies are perfectly soft with gooey chocolate in every bite.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible for all bakers.
• Customizable: Swap out M&Ms for other candy or add mix-ins like nuts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Valentine’s Day-themed M&Ms (or regular M&Ms)
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the Valentine’s Day M&Ms and chocolate chips (if using).
6. Shape the Cookies: Scoop large balls of dough (about 3 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving room for spreading. Press a few extra M&Ms on top for decoration.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft, chewy texture.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12-14 large cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Peanut Butter M&Ms: Use peanut butter M&Ms for a nutty twist.
• White Chocolate Chips: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate for added sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Heart-Shaped Cookies: Shape the dough into hearts before baking for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them gooey and fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular M&Ms?

Yes, regular M&Ms work perfectly, but Valentine’s Day-themed ones add a festive touch.

2. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Underbake slightly and store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

3. Can I make smaller cookies?

Yes, use 1-2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and reduce baking time to 8-10 minutes.

4. Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

5. What’s the best way to measure flour?

Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid overpacking.

6. Can I use dark cocoa powder?

Yes, dark cocoa powder will give the cookies a deeper chocolate flavor.

7. Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids will love the colorful M&Ms and chocolatey goodness.

8. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.

9. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours and bake as needed.

10. What pairs well with these cookies?

Serve with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

Big chocolate M&M Valentine’s Day cookies are the ultimate indulgence, combining rich chocolate flavor with festive flair. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or treating yourself, these oversized cookies are sure to impress. Customize them with your favorite add-ins, bake up a batch, and enjoy a sweet celebration of love and friendship!

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