Name: Irresistibly Soft M&M Bunny Cookies for Your Easter Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour substitute available); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup butter (softened) (vegan butter for dairy-free); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed) (coconut sugar as a substitute); 1 large egg (lightly beaten) (flax egg for vegan alternative); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups milk chocolate pastel M&Ms (other chocolate candies can be used); 1 cup additional M&Ms (for pressing into cookies)

As I stood in my kitchen the other day, I couldn’t help but admire the vibrant spring colors blooming outside my window. It hit me—Easter is just around the corner! What better way to celebrate than by baking a batch of delightful M&M Bunny Cookies? These chewy treats, adorned with pastel-colored candies, instantly lift your spirits and bring a smile to anyone who sees them. Not only are they quick to whip up, requiring just 15 minutes of prep and a mere 12 minutes in the oven, but they also make the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or just a sweet afternoon snack. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch, throwing a children’s party, or simply craving a treat, these M&M Bunny Cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. Curious to see just how easy they are to make? Let’s hop right into the recipe!

Why Are M&M Bunny Cookies So Irresistible?

Soft and Chewy: These cookies offer the perfect balance between softness and chewiness, making every bite a delightful experience.

Festive Appeal: Adorned with colorful pastel M&Ms, they bring a cheerful vibe to any Easter celebration, catching the eyes of guests young and old.

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch effortlessly, fitting perfectly into your busy holiday schedule.

Versatile: Replace the M&Ms with your favorite candies or add colorful sprinkles for extra flair—customize them to fit any occasion!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for an Easter brunch or a sweet treat after school, these cookies are sure to be loved by all, just like these Cinnamon Roll Cookies that everyone goes crazy for!

Storage-Friendly: Keep them fresh in an airtight container for up to four days or freeze them for later enjoyment, making them a convenient option for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings.

M&M Bunny Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of these delightful cookies; you can swap it out for gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light and airy texture.
Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise, resulting in a perfect soft texture.
Salt – Enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Butter (softened) – Contributes moisture and richness; for a dairy-free version, you can use vegan butter.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and plays a major role in achieving that chewy texture.
Brown sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a deep, rich flavor; coconut sugar is a great substitution for a healthier choice.
Egg (large, lightly beaten) – Binds all the ingredients together for a cohesive dough; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth of flavor to the mix.
Milk chocolate pastel M&Ms – Brings creaminess and vibrant color; feel free to use other chocolate candies for a fun twist.

For Decoration

Additional M&Ms – Use these for pressing into cookies after baking, creating adorable bunny faces that add to their festive spirit.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for M&M Bunny Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie placement and cleanup. This initial step ensures your M&M Bunny Cookies bake evenly while preventing any sticking, making the whole process smoother.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for incorporating air into your dry ingredients, promoting a fluffy texture in your cookies. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet mixture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them with a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The sugars should dissolve, and the butter should take on a pale color, resulting in a rich base for your M&M Bunny Cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla
Add the lightly beaten egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. This will create a smooth batter. The warmth from the egg helps to emulsify the mixture, resulting in a moist dough that brings the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay! This step allows your dough to form, ensuring your M&M Bunny Cookies will bake soft and chewy.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough into balls, approximately 2-3 tablespoons each, and place them 2-3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. The spacing is vital for even baking, allowing the M&M Bunny Cookies to spread without merging together.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know the cookies are ready when the edges are lightly browned while the centers remain soft. This slight underbaking ensures that delightful chewy texture we love in M&M Bunny Cookies.

Step 8: Add M&Ms for Bunny Faces
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, press nine M&Ms into the top of each warm cookie to create a cute bunny face. Make sure to do this while they’re warm—this way, the M&Ms will adhere perfectly and stay in place as the cookies cool down.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Allow the M&M Bunny Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Once cooled slightly, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final cooling step helps them set up perfectly, ensuring soft, chewy cookies with a crisp edge that’s simply irresistible.

Expert Tips for M&M Bunny Cookies

Chill the Bowl: If your dough becomes too soft while mixing, place the mixing bowl in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before scooping.
Uniform Sizes: Use a 1½-inch cookie scoop to ensure all cookies are the same size, promoting even baking and consistency in your M&M Bunny Cookies.
Press M&Ms While Warm: To ensure the pastel M&Ms stay in place, immediately press them into the cookies right after removing them from the oven.
Avoid Overbaking: To maintain that chewy texture, watch your cookies closely; they should be slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to swap out the M&Ms with other candies or incorporate nuts for a personal twist on these delightful M&M Bunny Cookies!

What to Serve with M&M Bunny Cookies

These colorful treats are not just a sweet indulgence; they can be the centerpiece of your festive table, bringing joy to every gathering.

Fluffy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing creates a heavenly contrast; the warm cookies melt the ice cream’s creaminess in every sweet bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries and citrus adds brightness and balance to the sweet cookies, delighting both palate and eye.
Creamy Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake enhances the dessert table while complementing the sweetness of the M&M Bunny Cookies.

For a cozy finish, why not serve with a warm cup of milk or a light herbal tea? This soothing drink softens the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful after-school snack or a cozy evening treat.

Lemonade or Iced Tea: Sweet, tangy beverages provide a refreshing contrast that highlights the cookie’s flavor with each sip.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These elegant treats add a touch of sophistication and a burst of fresh flavor alongside your bunny cookies.
No-Bake Easter Egg Cheesecake: A rich, creamy cake that beautifully transitions between dessert favorites, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or parties.

M&M Bunny Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these cookies, customizing them to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan butter and replace the egg with a flax egg for a compassionate twist.
Sugar Swap: Try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a slightly caramel-flavored cookie with a healthier touch.
Add Some Spice: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture for a warm, inviting flavor boost.
Chewy Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to add a nutty crunch and enhance texture.
Candy Mix-Up: Instead of M&Ms, use mini chocolate chips or your favorite chocolate-covered candies to give your cookies a fun twist.
Sprinkle Joy: Before baking, add colorful sprinkles to the dough for an extra festive look; it’s like a celebration in every bite!
Heat Wave: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the dough for a surprising kick that perfectly complements the sweetness.

Whether you choose to follow the traditional path or experiment a little, these M&M Bunny Cookies are sure to please! And if you’re interested in trying another crowd favorite, check out these Chocolate Chip Cookies or the festive Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These M&M Bunny Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together, and then refrigerating the dough in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. When ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and follow the finishing instructions, pressing nine M&Ms into each warm cookie just as you pull them from the oven. For even longer storage, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh, soft M&M Bunny Cookies at a moment’s notice—just as delicious as if you made them fresh!

How to Store and Freeze M&M Bunny Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Refrigerator: If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate the cookies, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze baked M&M Bunny Cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Dough Storage: You can also refrigerate the prepared cookie dough for up to 48 hours. Just scoop and bake the dough when you’re ready!

M&M Bunny Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of M&Ms should I use for these cookies?
I recommend using milk chocolate pastel M&Ms for a festive feel, but feel free to swap them for your favorite chocolate candies or even nuts for a delicious twist!

How should I store M&M Bunny Cookies?
Store your M&M Bunny Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them; just remember to let them warm up a bit before enjoying!

Can I freeze M&M Bunny Cookies?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before indulging.

How do I know if my cookies are safely baked?
To achieve that delightful chewy texture, your cookies should be slightly underbaked in the center and lightly browned at the edges. Aim for a baking time of about 10-12 minutes—remember, they will continue to cook a little as they cool!

Are M&M Bunny Cookies suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these cookies are vegetarian-friendly! If you have any dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and opt for vegan butter to make them dairy-free.

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop out the desired amount and place them on your baking sheet!