M&M’s Brownies

by
MMBrowniesRecipe 1

There’s something undeniably joyful about baking M&M’s Brownies. Maybe it’s the burst of color, the nostalgia of sneaking candy from the bag, or the way those crunchy shells melt slightly into rich, fudgy chocolate. For me, these brownies are pure comfort—an American classic with a playful twist that never fails to make people smile.

These M&M’s Brownies are thick, deeply fudgy, and packed with chocolate flavor, with colorful M&M’s baked right into the top and center. They’re perfect for year-round baking, but they truly shine at parties, bake sales, school events, and holidays when you want something eye-catching and irresistible.

If you’re looking for a brownie recipe that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to disappear fast, this is the one.

Why You’ll Love These M&M’s Brownies

  • Ultra fudgy texture (never dry)
  • Bright, colorful M&M’s in every bite
  • One-bowl, simple ingredients
  • Perfect for parties, kids, and bake sales
  • Easy to customize with seasonal M&M’s
  • Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly

These M&M’s Brownies combine classic American brownies with the fun of everyone’s favorite candy.

MMBrowniesRecipe

Ingredients for M&M’s Brownies (8 Servings)

Brownie Batter

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

Add-Ins

  • ¾ cup M&M’s candies (plus extra for topping)
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, but recommended)

Tip: Use regular M&M’s for best results. Peanut M&M’s add too much bulk and can sink. For baking candy tips, King Arthur Baking is a great reference.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • 8×8-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Offset spatula (optional)

Prep Time & Bake Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Make M&M’s Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan. Let cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the eggs.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth and glossy. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully combined.

This step is key to achieving that rich, fudgy M&M’s brownie texture.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the brownies dense and moist.

Step 5: Fold in M&M’s

Fold in most of the M&M’s and chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for the top.

Step 6: Bake

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle remaining M&M’s on top.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs—not clean.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let brownies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps them set and keeps the centers fudgy.

Tips for Perfect Fudgy M&M’s Brownies

  • Don’t overbake—slightly underdone is best
  • Measure flour carefully (spoon & level)
  • Let brownies cool before cutting
  • Use parchment paper for clean slices

If you love ultra-fudgy brownies, Serious Eats has excellent baking science tips worth exploring.

Decorating & Seasonal Ideas

One of the best things about M&M’s Brownies is how easy they are to customize:

  • Christmas: Red & green M&M’s
  • Easter: Pastel M&M’s
  • Valentine’s Day: Pink, red & white M&M’s
  • Fourth of July: Red, white & blue M&M’s
  • Bake Sales: Mix multiple colors for visual impact

They instantly match the occasion with zero extra effort.

Perfect for Parties & Bake Sales

These M&M’s Brownies are ideal for:

  • Birthday parties
  • School events
  • Bake sales
  • Holiday dessert tables
  • Kids’ treats
  • Casual gatherings

They transport well, cut cleanly, and stay moist for days.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Refrigerator: Up to 7 days
  • Freezer: Freeze sliced brownies for up to 2 months

Wrap individually for easy grab-and-go treats.

Variations to Try

Double Chocolate M&M’s Brownies

Use chocolate M&M’s and add extra chocolate chips.

Stuffed Brownies

Add a layer of chocolate spread or caramel in the center.

Box-Mix Shortcut

Stir M&M’s into a boxed brownie mix for a quick version.

Gluten-Free Option

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the batter
  • Baking too long
  • Cutting before cooling
  • Using too many M&M’s (they can sink and melt unevenly)

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Protein: 4g

Final Thoughts from My Kitchen

These M&M’s Brownies are everything a brownie should be—rich, fudgy, chocolatey, and fun. They’re the kind of dessert that brings people together, whether it’s kids crowding around the counter or adults sneaking a second piece.

If you bake just one brownie recipe this season, make it this one 🍫🌈

Leave a Comment