Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Holiday M&M's Cookie Mix Jar?
It is a festive gift jar containing pre-layered dry ingredients used to bake 30 homemade cookies.
How many cookies does one jar produce?
One jar of this cookie mix makes approximately 30 scrumptious cookies.
In what order should the ingredients be layered in the jar?
Layer the ingredients in this order: granulated sugar first, then M&M's, and finally the flour mixture.
What type of jar is recommended for this recipe?
A large, wide-mouth jar is recommended to make layering easier and to ensure all ingredients fit snugly.
What is the baking temperature for these cookies?
The cookies should be baked in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
How long do the cookies need to bake?
The baking time is between 12 and 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
What wet ingredients need to be added to the mix?
You will need to add 1 stick of very soft butter or margarine, 1 large slightly beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Can I use diet margarine for this recipe?
No, the instructions specify not to use diet margarine for these cookies.
How should the dry ingredients be prepared before layering?
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder to ensure they are well combined before adding them to the jar.
How large should the dough balls be?
Shape the dough into balls approximately the size of walnuts.
How far apart should I place the dough balls on the baking sheet?
Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on a greased baking sheet.
What should I do if the dough is too stiff to mix with a spoon?
The dough will be stiff by design; you may need to use your hands to finish mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Should the baking sheet be greased?
Yes, the instructions recommend using a greased baking sheet for the cookies.
How long should the cookies cool on the pan?
Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before moving them.
Where should the cookies finish cooling?
After the initial 5-minute cooling period, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
Can I customize this for different holidays?
Yes, you can customize the color of the M&M's to match any holiday, such as red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter.
Is this a good activity for children?
Yes, children will enjoy the process of mixing the ingredients and shaping the cookie dough.
How much granulated sugar is required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar.
How much flour is included in the mix?
The mix uses 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
How much butter is needed for the dough?
You will need 1 stick (1/2 cup) of very soft butter or margarine.
What should I do to the egg before adding it?
The egg should be slightly beaten before being mixed into the cookie dough.
How many M&M's are needed for the jar?
The recipe requires 1 1/4 cups of plain chocolate M&M's.
What leavening agents are used in the flour mixture?
The mixture uses 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder.
What should I include on the gift tag?
The gift tag should include the baking instructions so the recipient knows how to prepare the cookies.
Should I press the layers down in the jar?
Yes, press each layer down firmly to ensure all ingredients fit snugly inside the jar.
Can I use vanilla extract in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract should be added when mixing the dough.
What is the first step when preparing the gift jar?
The first step is whisking together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
What is the first step when the recipient is ready to bake?
The recipient should empty the jar into a large mixing bowl and blend the dry mixture thoroughly.
How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The cookies are finished when the edges are lightly browned after 12-14 minutes of baking.
Does this recipe contain salt?
The provided ingredient list does not include added salt, though it uses baking soda and baking powder.