If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect balance of fudgy chocolate with a fun pop of color and crunch, this M&M’s Brownies Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. Imagine biting into a rich, gooey brownie studded generously with chocolate chips and vibrant M&M’s that melt slightly, creating a delightful texture and a burst of chocolatey goodness in every bite. It’s easy to make, irresistibly chocolaty, and so cheerful with those colorful candies baked right in. Whether you’re making these for a weeknight dessert or a party, these brownies bring warmth and smiles to any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are a humble collection of pantry staples, each playing a vital role in crafting the perfect M&M’s Brownies Recipe. From the richness of melted butter to the fudgy depth of cocoa powder and the crunch of M&M’s, every element is essential for that perfect blend of texture and flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted): Provides a rich, moist base and helps create that luscious fudgy texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies, balancing the intense chocolate flavor.
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed): Adds a subtle caramel note and helps keep the brownies chewy.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies cakey.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that deep, rich chocolate flavor essential for brownies.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Elevates flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Gives just the right lift without affecting the fudginess.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Pockets of melted chocolate mixed throughout for indulgence.
- 1 cup M&M’s (plus extra for topping): Adds colorful crunch and a playful twist on classic brownies.
How to Make M&M’s Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step ensures your brownies come out cleanly and maintain their beautiful shape once baked.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until everything is well combined. This mixture sets the foundation for your brownie’s moist, chewy texture and rich flavor.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract into your sugar and butter mixture. Beat until the batter becomes smooth and glossy—a good sign that your brownies will have an amazing crumb.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. This ensures your leavening agent and cocoa are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor and texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want to keep the brownies dense and fudgy instead of cakey.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M’s
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of M&M’s. This adds those delicious pockets of gooey chocolate and bright candy bursts that make this recipe so special.
Step 7: Spread Batter and Add Topping
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle a handful of extra M&M’s on top for eye-catching color and extra crunch after baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. For fudgier brownies, aim closer to 30 minutes. To test, insert a toothpick near the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
How to Serve M&M’s Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While these brownies are stunning on their own, adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce can elevate their presentation and add an extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pairing your M&M’s Brownies Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream creates a perfect dessert duo, balancing the rich chocolatiness with creamy coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a colorful platter for parties. You can also stack squares between layers of frosting or spread them thickly on cupcake bases for a double chocolate treat that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them moist and fresh without drying out, so you can enjoy that perfect chewy texture whenever cravings hit.
Freezing
If you want to keep your M&M’s Brownies Recipe longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, microwave a brownie for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop it briefly into a warm oven. This melts the chocolate chips slightly and refreshes their gooey, dreamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of M&M’s in this recipe?
Absolutely! Peanut, peanut butter, or pretzel M&M’s can add interesting flavors and textures, making your brownies uniquely yours. Just be mindful that some varieties may alter the cooking time slightly.
How can I make these brownies fudgier?
For extra fudgy brownies, bake closer to 30 minutes and avoid overmixing the batter. Also, using melted butter rather than oil helps create a denser, richer texture that melts in your mouth.
Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar?
Yes, using both sugars gives the brownies the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. Brown sugar’s moisture keeps them soft, while granulated sugar adds a classic sugary bite.
Can I substitute the cocoa powder with melted chocolate?
While melted chocolate can be used, it will change the texture and richness of the brownies. If substituting, reduce the butter accordingly and expect a slightly different, more cake-like result.
Are these brownies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This M&M’s Brownies Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no animal-derived ingredients other than eggs and dairy, making them perfect for many dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about baking a batch of these colorful, fudgy M&M’s Brownies Recipe and sharing them with loved ones. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a fun and delicious way to brighten your day. So go ahead, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to enjoy brownies that bring a smile to every bite!
Print
M&M’s Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These M&M’s Brownies are a deliciously rich and fudgy treat, bursting with colorful candy-coated chocolates throughout. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, these brownies combine classic chocolate flavor with fun M&M’s for a festive twist. Easy to prepare and bake, this recipe yields chewy, moist brownies that are great for parties, kids’ snacks, or anytime dessert cravings strike.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Add-Ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fully combined and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is glossy and uniform.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution of leavening and cocoa flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the brownies tough.
- Add Chocolate Chips and M&M’s: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of M&M’s evenly through the batter to add bursts of chocolate and color.
- Spread Batter in Pan: Pour and spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle additional M&M’s on top for a decorative and extra flavorful finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares to serve. This ensures clean cuts and optimal texture.
Notes
- For fudgier brownies, bake closer to the 30-minute mark.
- You can swap regular M&M’s with peanut or pretzel versions to create fun flavor variations.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
