M&M’s Brownies

These M&M’s brownies are the perfect marriage of decadent, fudgy brownies and the crunchy, colorful candies. They aren’t just fun to look at; they’re also easy to make, with a cocoa-based brownie batter that bakes up moist and chocolaty. To keep the candies from melting, don’t add the M&M’s until about halfway through the bake time, and lightly press them into the surface for a picture-perfect finish. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a bake sale or just because, this top brownie recipe delivers a pop of color and chocolate in every bite.

Ingredients for M&M’s Brownies

• Baking cocoa: Baking cocoa, also known as cocoa powder, is the key ingredient for chocolate brownies with M&M’s. Use unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Baking soda: Baking soda contributes to the brownies’ rise and gives them a soft, chewy texture.
• Butter: Melted butter provides rich flavor and adds to the texture.
• Boiling water: While it may seem insignificant, boiling water is essential for this batter. It blooms the baking cocoa to maximize its flavor and gives the brownies a moist texture.
• Sugar: Sweeten the brownies with granulated sugar.
• Eggs: Eggs help the brownies rise while baking. Use room-temperature eggs to incorporate them into the batter more easily.
• Vanilla extract: A small amount of vanilla extract goes a long way in enhancing the way these brownies taste.
• All-purpose flour: Incorporate flour into the brownie batter to provide structure.
• Salt: Mix just a touch of salt into the batter to balance out the sweetness in this brownie recipe.
• M&M’s: Dress up classic brownies with M&M’s. Use regular chocolate M&M’s candies or other M&M’s flavor options, such as peanut or dark chocolate.

Directions

Step 1: Prep the chocolate mixture

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the baking cocoa and baking soda. Stir in 1/3 cup of melted butter. Add boiling water and stir until the mixture is well blended.

Step 2: Make the brownie batter

Stir in the sugar, eggs, remaining 1/3 cup of melted butter and vanilla. Combine the flour and salt in a small bowl and stir them into the cocoa mixture.

Editor’s Tip: Avoid overmixing the brownie batter to maintain its chewy texture. Mixing the batter too much can result in a cakey brownie.

Step 3: Bake the brownies

Pour the batter into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Bake the brownies for 15 minutes, then evenly sprinkle the top with M&M’s. Continue baking until the brownies begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, 20 to 25 minutes longer. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

M&M’s Brownies Variations

• Add espresso powder: This secret ingredient for chocolate desserts enhances the chocolate flavor of these brownies. A small amount of espresso powder goes a long way; mix 1 teaspoon with the sugar and eggs.
• Go for peanut butter: For a classic chocolate and peanut butter combo, use Reese’s Pieces instead of (or in addition to) M&M’s.
• Top with frosting: For a play on texture and flavor, spread fudge frosting or peanut butter frosting over the top of these brownies.

How to Store M&M’s Brownies

Store your brownies in an airtight container to maintain their soft, chewy texture and chocolaty flavor. Alternatively, you can store them in a zip-top storage bag or wrapped in storage wrap.

How long do M&M’s brownies last?

Store the brownies at room temperature for two to three weeks. They can also be stored in the fridge for two to three months.

Can you freeze M&M’s brownies?

Freezing brownies is simple. Store the cooled brownies in an airtight container or wrap them in storage wrap and aluminum foil. Keep the brownies in the freezer for 8 to 12 months and let them thaw at room temperature before eating them.

M&M’s Brownies Tips

Can you add M&M’s to the batter?

This recipe calls for sprinkling M&Ms on top of the brownies during baking. If you want more, you can certainly stir additional M&Ms into the batter. M&M’s mixed into the batter may melt and their color may run a bit.

Can you make M&M’s brownies with a box mix?

Do you have a favorite boxed brownie mix? Use that instead for an easy shortcut. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle M&Ms on top.

How should you serve M&M’s brownies?

While M&M’s brownies are a great treat by themselves, you can use them for many other desserts. Top brownies with a scoop of ice cream to make a brownie sundae, or pair them with whipped cream and caramel sauce. You can also use pieces of M&M’s brownies to make a brownie trifle.