Brown Butter M&M Cookies

I made these Brown Butter M&M Cookies and they are so yummy and crunchy. These cookies are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. Let’s get baking and create a batch of these irresistible treats!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (browned and cooled)
  • 1½ cups brown sugar (packed)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  • 1 cup mini M&Ms

For Finishing:

  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Butter:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  2. Continue cooking until the butter foams, turns golden brown, and develops a nutty aroma.
  3. Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a heat-proof bowl to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Set aside.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
  2. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture lightens in color and becomes slightly fluffy.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

  1. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  2. Fold in the milk chocolate chips and mini M&Ms until evenly distributed.

5. Chill the Dough:

  1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling enhances the flavor and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

6. Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

7. Shape the Cookies:

  1. Scoop dough into balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.

8. Bake the Cookies:

  1. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear slightly underbaked.
  2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

9. Finish and Serve:

  1. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt for a touch of sophistication (optional).
  2. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Storage Tips:

  • To keep the cookies soft and fresh, store them with a slice of bread in an airtight container.
  • Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

Pro Tips:

  1. Allow the browned butter to cool slightly before mixing to prevent melting the sugars.
  2. For extra gooey cookies, press a few additional M&Ms onto the dough balls before baking.
  3. Experiment with different M&M varieties or chocolate chunks for a fun twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates the classic cookie.
  • Perfect balance of chewy centers and crisp edges.
  • A colorful and playful dessert that’s fun for all ages.