Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these M&M cookies soft and chewy?
The combination of Crisco shortening, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar creates a dough that results in a perfectly soft and chewy texture.
What is the recommended oven temperature for these cookies?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking.
How long should I cream the shortening and sugars?
Cream the Crisco shortening, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for approximately 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
What type of fat is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1 cup of Crisco shortening, which should be melted or softened at room temperature.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe calls for 2 large eggs, ideally at room temperature.
What kind of flour is best for these cookies?
Use 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, and it is recommended to sift it beforehand.
How much vanilla extract should I add?
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet mixture.
Should I use light or dark brown sugar?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of packed light brown sugar.
How much M&M's are needed for the dough?
Fold 1/2 cup of plain chocolate M&M's into the cookie dough mixture.
How do I prepare the cookie sheet?
Use an ungreased cookie sheet to drop the dough onto.
How much dough should I use per cookie?
Use a tablespoon to drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
How can I make the cookies look more festive?
Press 2-3 additional M&M's onto the top of each dough ball before placing them in the oven.
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, but the centers should remain soft.
How long should the cookies cool on the sheet?
Allow the cookies to cool on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven.
Where should I move the cookies after the initial cooling?
Transfer them to a wire rack to allow them to cool completely.
What should I avoid when mixing the dry ingredients into the wet?
Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing the dough.
Can I use these for holiday occasions?
Yes, they are perfect for Christmas, Easter, or any festive occasion.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of salt.
How much baking soda is needed?
Include 1 teaspoon of baking soda in your dry ingredient mixture.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: shortening, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, salt, baking soda, and M&M's.
What is the total amount of M&M's suggested for the whole recipe?
The recipe suggests 1 1/2 cups of M&M's total, used both inside and on top.
Is the dough easy to work with?
Yes, the combination of sugars and shortening creates an easy-to-handle dough.
What is the main flavor of these cookies?
They have a classic sweet cookie base with plain chocolate M&M's.
Do I need to leave space between cookies on the sheet?
Yes, leave space between each spoonful of dough to allow for spreading during baking.
Can adults enjoy these cookies too?
Absolutely, they are a family favorite designed for both kids and adults.
How is the texture described?
The texture is described as a perfect balance of softness and chewiness that melts in your mouth.
Does the recipe require a specific type of M&M?
The recipe calls for plain chocolate M&M's, but you can use festive colors for holidays.
Can I substitute the shortening?
While the recipe calls for Crisco shortening to achieve the specific texture, some bakers may substitute, though results may vary.
Are these cookies a quick treat to make?
Yes, with a baking time of about 10 minutes, they are a quick and delicious dessert option.