Few treats bring the same nostalgic joy as Mrs Fields M&M cookies. These colorful, chewy delights have been a favorite for decades, combining the perfect balance of rich chocolate and buttery dough. We love how each bite bursts with sweet candy-coated crunch and gooey chocolate goodness.
Recreating this classic at home is easier than you might think. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few baking tips, we can enjoy fresh, warm cookies straight from our oven. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies never fail to impress and satisfy those sweet cravings.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Mrs. Fields M&M Cookie experience, we rely on simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of rich chocolate, buttery dough, and satisfying texture.
Dry Ingredients
We start with the foundation—the dry ingredients—which give the cookie structure and flavor depth:
- 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour (sifted for lightness)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (for that perfect rise)
- ½ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness)
- 1 cup (170g) M&M’s Candies (reserve some for topping)
Wet Ingredients
The wet elements bind our dough while imparting rich flavor and chewy texture:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (165g) packed brown sugar, light or dark for moisture and depth
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
M&M Candy
The star attraction in our Mrs. Fields M&M Cookie recipe is the candy shell-coated chocolate:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| M&M’s Candies | 1 cup (170g) | Mixed into dough for bursts of chocolate color and flavor |
| Extra M&M’s | ¼ cup (42g) | Press on top before baking for an appealing look |
By carefully combining these ingredients, we ensure our cookies capture that nostalgic indulgence in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Mrs Fields M&M Cookie at home, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures consistent texture, precise mixing, and even baking for that nostalgic cookie experience.
Essential Tools for Mixing and Preparing Dough
- Large mixing bowl: Use for combining both wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: Helps to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, key for the right cookie texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balance in flavor and texture.
- Rubber spatula: For folding in the M&M’s Candies gently, preserving their shape and color.
Baking and Shaping Tools
- Baking sheets: Choose rimmed sheets to contain spreading dough.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevent cookies from sticking and promote even baking.
- Cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons): Ensures uniform cookie size and baking time.
- Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy.
| Equipment | Purpose | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mix ingredients | Ensures thorough and even mixing |
| Hand Mixer/Stand Mixer | Cream butter and sugar | Creates light, fluffy dough |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients accurately | Guarantees recipe precision |
| Rubber Spatula | Fold in M&M’s gently | Keeps candy intact for appearance |
| Baking Sheets | Bake cookies | Contains dough and prevents spills |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Non-stick surface | Promotes even baking and easy cleanup |
| Cookie Scoop | Shape cookie dough balls | Uniform size for consistent baking |
| Cooling Rack | Cool baked cookies | Prevents sogginess and cracking |
By preparing with these tools at hand, we can replicate the signature texture and look of Mrs Fields M&M Cookies with ease and confidence.
Prep Work
Before we dive into baking, getting the Prep Work right is crucial for recreating the iconic Mrs. Fields M&M Cookie. Proper preparation sets the stage for a deliciously chewy and colorful cookie that tastes just like the original.
Preparing the Dough
We start by combining the ingredients precisely to achieve the perfect cookie dough texture. First, we cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air for a tender crumb. Next, we add eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the rich flavor.
In a separate bowl, we whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients provide structure and balance the sweetness. Then, we gradually add the dry mix into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined—overmixing can make cookies tough.
Finally, we fold in the colorful star ingredient: M&M’s Candies. We reserve a handful to press on top of the cookie dough balls before baking for that signature vibrant look.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 3/4 cup | Light or dark both work |
| Eggs | 2 large | At room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla preferred |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups | |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | |
| M&M’s Candies | 1 1/2 cups total | Divided for mixing and topping |
Chilling the Dough (If Applicable)
To replicate that perfect chewy texture and prevent cookies from spreading too thin, we recommend chilling the dough. Wrap the dough ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Chilling solidifies the fats, which controls spreading and deepens flavor intensity.
“Chilling the dough is a simple trick that guarantees thick, soft cookies with melty, colorful M&M’s in every bite.”
If short on time, we can skip chilling but expect thinner cookies. For best results, patience pays off here—it is well worth the wait. When ready to bake, scoop dough directly from the fridge, press some reserved M&M’s on top, and place on prepared baking sheets.
By mastering this prep work, we set ourselves up for Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies that impress with their signature chewy texture, sweetness, and eye-catching appearance.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft the iconic Mrs Fields M&M Cookie with the perfect balance of chewiness and vibrant crunch.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Start by creaming together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula or mixer on low speed. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cookies.
Adding M&M Candies
- Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups M&M’s Candies to evenly distribute the colorful chocolate pieces throughout the dough.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of M&M’s for topping. Press these reserved candies lightly on the surface of each cookie dough ball before baking to enhance the cookie’s signature look and melty appeal.
Shaping the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out dough balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter for uniform size.
- Space the dough balls 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to allow for spreading.
- Optional but recommended: Cover and chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to control spread and improve texture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
| Step | Ingredient(s) | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creaming | Butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar | Beat until light and fluffy | 3-4 minutes medium speed |
| Adding wet | Eggs, vanilla extract | Mix one egg at a time, then add vanilla | Fully incorporate |
| Mixing dry | Flour, baking soda, salt | Whisk together | |
| Combining | Wet and dry mixtures | Mix gently to combine | Avoid overmixing |
| Adding M&M’s | M&M’s Candies | Fold into dough and reserve for topping | Distribute evenly |
| Shaping and chilling | Dough balls | Scoop and chill | 1.5-inch balls, chill 1 hour |
| Baking | Prepared dough | Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes | Edges golden, centers soft |
Baking Directions
To capture the classic Mrs. Fields M&M Cookie experience, precise baking is essential. Following exact oven settings and timing ensures cookies with the perfect texture and appearance.
Oven Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly, producing golden edges and a soft chewy center.
- Place the dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Start checking at 10 minutes, as oven times may vary. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain the signature chewiness.
| Baking Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | 350°F | – | Essential for even baking |
| Baking Time | 350°F | 10-12 minutes | Edges golden; centers soft and slightly underbaked |
| Cooling | Room Temp | 5 minutes | Transfer to cooling rack to avoid sogginess |
Tips for Perfectly Baked Cookies
To master these Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies, consider these expert tips:
- Do not skip chilling the dough: Even 1 hour in the fridge controls spreading and enhances flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop to form uniform dough balls, ensuring even baking.
- Gently press a few extra M&M’s on top of each dough ball before baking for that iconic colorful finish.
- Remove cookies from the oven when edges are golden but centers seem slightly too soft; carryover heat will finish baking them perfectly.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a rack to preserve softness.
- Avoid overmixing your dough to keep the texture tender and chewy.
By following these guidelines, we guarantee Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies that look stunning and taste irresistibly soft and rich every single time.
Cooling and Serving
Once our Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies come out of the oven with those lightly golden edges and soft centers, the next essential step is cooling. Carefully transfer the cookies from the baking sheet onto a wire cooling rack using a spatula. This allows air to circulate evenly around each cookie preventing sogginess and ensuring they firm up just right.
Allow the cookies to cool on the rack for at least 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the cookies set to the perfect chewy texture with melty M&M’s still nestled visibly on top. Resist the urge to eat them immediately. If we wait too long on the hot baking sheet, the cookies continue to bake and can become crispier than intended.
Tips for Cooling Perfection:
| Cooling Step | Purpose | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate transfer to rack | Prevents overbaking on hot baking sheet | Within 1 minute after removal from oven |
| Cooling on rack | Sets chewy texture and melty M&M’s | 10 to 15 minutes |
| Optional room temperature rest | Enhances flavor development | 30 minutes or more |
When the cookies have cooled sufficiently, serving is effortless but also a moment to delight in their nostalgic appeal. Arrange the cookies on a festive plate to showcase their colorful M&M’s. Pairing with a cold glass of milk enhances every bite’s rich buttery flavor and chocolate pops.
“Our best advice is to let the cookies cool fully to enjoy the true signature chew and melt-in-your-mouth M&M’s that make these cookies unforgettable.”
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for a melty candy experience.
- Offer with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Pack in airtight containers for sharing or gifting while keeping freshness intact.
Let’s embrace this final step as part of the joy of recreating Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies — where every bite delivers that perfect balance of soft dough and vibrant candy crunch.
Storage Tips
To keep our Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Follow these steps to maintain their signature soft texture and vibrant candy crunch:
- Allow Cookies to Cool Completely
Before storing, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Storing warm cookies traps moisture which makes them soggy.
- Use an Airtight Container
Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. This prevents air exposure that can dry out the cookies and cause the M&M’s to lose their glossy finish.
- Layer with Parchment or Wax Paper
If stacking cookies, separate layers with parchment or wax paper. This prevents them from sticking together and preserves their shape.
- Room Temperature Storage
Store cookies at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to avoid melting the candy coating.
- Freezing for Longer Storage
For longer preservation, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents crushing.
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Thaw at room temperature before serving
Storage Duration Summary
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 5 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigeration (not recommended) | Not ideal | Causes cookies to harden |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Freeze in single layer, thaw before use |
“Storing cookies properly is essential to preserve the iconic chewy texture and melty M&M’s that define a true Mrs. Fields M&M Cookie experience.“
By following these storage tips, we ensure that each bite we enjoy later tastes as fresh and delightful as the moment they come out of the oven.
Conclusion
Baking Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies at home brings a wonderful blend of nostalgia and satisfaction. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can easily recreate that perfect chewy texture and vibrant candy crunch.
Taking the time to chill the dough and bake with precision makes all the difference in capturing the authentic experience. These cookies are versatile treats that brighten any occasion and satisfy sweet cravings effortlessly.
By following our tips, you’ll enjoy fresh, soft cookies that look just as good as they taste. Let’s keep the joy of homemade baking alive with every batch we make.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies at home?
You need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, M&M’s Candies, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. These combine to give the cookies their rich flavor and chewy texture.
Why is it important to chill the cookie dough?
Chilling the dough for at least an hour helps control spreading while baking, resulting in thicker, softer cookies with melty M&M’s and enhanced flavor.
What equipment do I need to bake these cookies perfectly?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, rubber spatula, rimmed baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, cookie scoop, and a cooling rack.
How long and at what temperature should I bake Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the centers remain soft.
Can I store Mrs. Fields M&M Cookies, and how?
Yes. Let cookies cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.