Name: Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3⁄4 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter; 1⁄2 cup brown sugar; 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda; 1⁄4 teaspoon salt; 3⁄4 cup peanut butter M&Ms, plus extra for topping

If you love chewy, soft-baked cookies and can’t resist peanut butter, this Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe will become your new favorite. These cookies are thick, bakery-style, and bursting with colorful peanut butter M&Ms in every bite. They strike the perfect balance between salty and sweet, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impossible to resist.

They’re also super easy to make! With no chilling required, you can whip these up on a whim and be enjoying warm cookies in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just a craving, this recipe delivers guaranteed cookie joy.

These cookies are packed with peanut butter flavor and have that perfect soft-but-chewy bite. The M&Ms stay slightly crisp on the outside and melt slightly on the inside for candy-coated goodness in every mouthful. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Can I Use Crunchy Peanut Butter Instead?

Absolutely! If you love a little texture in your cookies, crunchy peanut butter works just as well. It adds small peanut bits throughout the dough that give an extra nutty bite. Just make sure it’s not too dry. If you’re using a natural peanut butter, stir it well so the oil is evenly distributed before measuring.

These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to create soft, chewy, flavor-packed cookies.

Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature, this adds richness and helps create a tender texture.
Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy—either adds flavor and fat for softness.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and deepens the flavor with hints of caramel.
Granulated Sugar: For classic sweetness and cookie structure.
Large Egg: Binds the dough and gives the cookies structure.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the peanut butter flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The base that provides structure to the dough.
Baking Soda: Leavening agent to give the cookies just the right lift.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts the nutty flavor.
Peanut Butter M&Ms: The star ingredient that adds texture, color, and fun.

This is a no-fuss cookie recipe that’s easy to follow and ready in under 30 minutes!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.

Step 5: Stir in M&Ms

Fold in most of the peanut butter M&Ms, reserving a handful to press on top before baking.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form dough balls. Place on the baking sheet and slightly flatten. Press extra M&Ms on top.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

How to Serve and Store These Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies

These cookies are at their absolute best when slightly warm with melty M&Ms and soft centers. Serve with a glass of cold milk or alongside vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert. This recipe makes about 18–20 cookies, depending on the scoop size.

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough balls and bake from frozen—just add an extra 2 minutes to the baking time.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies?

Here are some tasty pairings to turn your cookies into a complete treat:

H3: Cold Brew Coffee

Balances the sweetness and gives an energy boost.

H3: Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Fruity, creamy, and a refreshing contrast to the cookies.

H3: Classic Vanilla Milkshake

A creamy throwback combo that never fails.

H3: Salted Caramel Drizzle

Turn your cookies into dessert plates with a warm caramel drizzle.

H3: Nutella Hot Chocolate

Double down on the indulgence with a rich and nutty drink.

H3: Yogurt Parfait

Crumbled cookies on top of Greek yogurt and berries for a fun twist.

H3: Ice Cream Sandwiches

Scoop vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an unforgettable treat.

If you can’t get enough of these peanut butter M&Ms cookies, here are some other creative cookie bakes to check out from NoraNosh:

Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies — For a deeper caramel crunch and toasted nut flavor.
Lemon Churro Cookies — A tangy-cinnamon combo that’s totally unique.
Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies — Soft, rich, and filled with ganache.
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies — A nostalgic classic with a kiss on top.
Brown Sugar Maple Cookies — Perfect for cozy fall baking.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can find it next time a cookie craving strikes.

Did you make them with crunchy peanut butter? Or switch up the candy mix-ins? Let me know in the comments!

I love seeing how others personalize these treats. Got questions? Ask away—let’s keep the cookie creativity going.

Explore more colorful and fun desserts on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next batch-worthy idea.

Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookie Recipe

Author: Nora
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 18–20 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These soft, chewy, bakery-style Peanut Butter M&Ms Cookies are bursting with colorful candy-coated crunch and rich peanut butter flavor. With no chill time required and a simple one-bowl method, they’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear. Whether you’re baking for a party, the holidays, or just because—it’s a feel-good treat packed with nostalgic flavor and texture. Perfect for easy dessert ideas, sweet snack cravings, or fun family baking sessions. You’ll love how simple and delicious they are!