How to Make Best Chocolate Brownies with M&Ms
A Sweet Bite of Nostalgia
Nothing brings you back to the comfort of childhood quite like a chewy, chocolatey brownie sprinkled with colorful M&Ms. Whether you’re baking for your kids, your friends, or simply to satisfy your own sweet tooth, chocolate brownies with M&Ms are the kind of treat that never goes out of style.
Remember those rainy afternoons when you’d help your mom in the kitchen, unwrapping candy while stealing bites of brownie batter? This recipe brings that joy back—only better. You’re not just baking; you’re creating memories, one colorful bite at a time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These M&M Brownies
Perfect Blend of Crunch and Fudge
- Rich, fudgy base with the perfect chewy texture
- Pops of crispiness and sweetness from the candy shell of M&Ms
- Visually vibrant and great for gifting or parties
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
- No fancy tools needed—just a mixing bowl and an oven
- Involves minimal cleanup, making it ideal for weekday bakes
- A fun baking project to share with kids
Ingredients for Chocolate Brownies with M&Ms
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| All-purpose flour | 3/4 cup |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1/2 tsp |
| M&Ms | 3/4 to 1 cup |
| Chocolate chips (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Optional Add-ins: White chocolate drizzle, Dove chocolate chunks, or even peanut M&Ms.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make M&M Brownies
Step 1 – Preheat and Prep
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well
Step 2 – Make the Brownie Batter
- Melt the butter and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until combined
Step 3 – Add the M&Ms
- Fold in half the M&Ms into the batter
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly
- Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top
Step 4 – Bake and Cool
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Brownies with M&Ms
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until everything is incorporated
- Avoid overbaking: Pull them out when the center is still slightly gooey
- Use room temperature eggs: This helps everything blend more smoothly
- Customize: Add a swirl of peanut butter, a handful of chopped nuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate on top
Creative Variations You’ll Love
Holiday Edition
- Use red and green M&Ms for Christmas, or pastel colors for Easter
- Swap in Dove chocolate chunks for a richer bite
- Add peppermint extract (just a drop!) for a seasonal twist
Mini Brownie Bites
- Use a mini muffin tin instead of a square pan
- Fill each well about 2/3 full
- Bake for 15–18 minutes for perfectly portioned treats
Gluten-Free Option
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to maintain chewiness
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- For longer storage, wrap brownies in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months
- Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10–12 seconds to revive that gooey texture
FAQs – Chocolate Brownies with M&Ms
Can I use peanut M&Ms in brownies?
Yes! Just give them a rough chop before mixing in so they distribute evenly and don’t sink.
Why are my M&M brownies dry?
They may be overbaked. Always check a few minutes early and remove when the center is barely set.
How do I keep the M&Ms from sinking?
Toss the M&Ms with a bit of flour before adding to the batter. It helps suspend them in the mix.
Can I make chocolate brownies with M&Ms in advance?
Absolutely. They taste even better the next day after the flavors meld together. Just store them properly.
Do I need to refrigerate M&M brownies?
Nope. Room temperature storage works just fine—just make sure they’re sealed tightly.
Conclusion – A Classic with a Colorful Crunch
There’s something timeless about a pan of homemade brownies, but when you add M&Ms, you get an instant crowd-pleaser that bridges nostalgia and flavor. These chocolate brownies with M&Ms don’t just taste good—they make people smile. From after-school snacks to holiday trays, they fit just about any occasion.
Don’t wait for a reason. Make a batch today, share with someone you love, and enjoy the little moments these brownies help create.