Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cinnamon, oats, and chocolate. When you bring these elements together in a cookie, it’s like a warm embrace from your childhood kitchen. These Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a comforting nostalgia with every bite. With their chewy texture, cinnamon warmth, and colorful M&M’s, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies have quickly become a favorite among bakers for numerous reasons:

• Flavor Explosion: The blend of cinnamon and chocolate is a classic combination that never fails to delight.
• Textural Harmony: The oats add a chewy, hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth M&M’s.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences by adding different mix-ins.

Ingredient Breakdown

This cookie recipe requires a handful of simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup white sugar: Balances the richness of the brown sugar.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your cookies.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the acids in the dough, promoting a light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Gives the cookies a hearty chewiness.
• 1 cup cinnamon chips: Intensifies the cinnamon flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups Cinnamon M&M’s: For a pop of color and a burst of chocolate.

Hardware & Gadgets

To whip up these delightful cookies, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowl: For combining all the wet ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars easier, but you can also use a whisk.
• Baking sheet: For placing your cookie dough before baking.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: For evenly portioning out the cookie dough.

Step-by-Step: Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies

Let’s dive into the baking process with these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Stir in Oats, Cinnamon Chips, and M&M’s

Fold in the old-fashioned oats, cinnamon chips, and Cinnamon M&M’s using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you or someone you know has dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations you can make:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar alternative like coconut sugar.
• Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a dairy-free butter.

Method to the Madness

The process of making Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies is as delightful as the cookies themselves. Here’s a quick rundown of the method:

• Begin by creaming the butter and sugars together to create a light and fluffy mixture.
• Incorporate the egg and vanilla for added richness.
• Whisk together the dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution.
• Mix everything together, being careful not to overmix, to keep your cookies tender.
• Finish by folding in the oats, cinnamon chips, and M&M’s for a burst of flavor.
• Finally, scoop, bake, and enjoy the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To ensure your Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies stay fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack after baking to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Storing: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Scoop out individual portions and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
• Rewarming: To enjoy them warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Reader Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While you can use quick oats, they will yield a different texture. Old-fashioned oats give the cookies a chewier consistency, which is ideal for this recipe.

What can I substitute for cinnamon chips?

If you can’t find cinnamon chips, you can use white chocolate or butterscotch chips instead. You could also add an extra teaspoon of ground cinnamon to enhance the flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and complement the flavors beautifully.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love baking and want more delicious cookie ideas, check out these links:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Almond Butter Cookies
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Next Steps

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge to make these Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in the delightful process of cookie making. Remember, the joy of baking is just as rewarding as enjoying the final product. So, gather your loved ones and share these cookies, or savor them all for yourself—either way, you won’t regret it!

With their delightful flavors and chewy texture, these Cinnamon M&M Oatmeal Cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!