Red, White & Blue Cookies

Festive Red, White & Blue Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. These cookies, featuring classic chocolate chip flavors with vibrant red, white, and blue M&M candies, are perfect for celebrating the 4th of July or Memorial Day. Soft-baked and chewy, they not only look festive but taste amazing too. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a sweet addition to your holiday dessert table, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate chips and colorful M&M’s creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Their patriotic colors make them ideal for holidays like the 4th of July and Memorial Day.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the mix-ins by adding nuts or using different types of M&M’s.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 servings, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Getting organized before you start baking will ensure a smooth process. Here’s what you need to make your Red, White & Blue Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or silpat liner
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when blending butter and sugars.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking multiple cookie batches at once.

Ingredients

Baking Essentials

• 12 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix-Ins

• 1 bag (10 oz) mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup patriotic mix M&M’s (red, white & blue m&m’s)

How to Make Red, White & Blue Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Prepare your cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper, using a silpat liner, or spraying them with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or using a mixing bowl with a hand mixer), combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and creamy—about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue beating until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add half of the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture. Beat on low speed just until combined. Repeat this step with the remaining dry ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M’s

Add in the mini chocolate chips and red, white & blue M&M’s. Mix on medium speed just until everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie and roll it into a ball. Place about 12 cookie dough balls on each prepared cookie sheet; they should resemble golf balls.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 8-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Adjust baking time based on cookie size—smaller cookies may take closer to 8-10 minutes while larger ones may need up to 12 minutes.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the warm cookie sheets for at least 20 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Decorate Your Cookies

For an extra festive touch, add additional M&M’s on top of each cookie dough ball before baking or gently press some onto warm cookies right after they come out of the oven.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Red, White & Blue Cookies!

How to Serve Red, White & Blue Cookies

Festive Red, White & Blue Cookies are perfect for celebrating special occasions. Here are some delightful ways to serve these delicious treats that will wow your guests.

At a Fourth of July Celebration

• Pair with refreshing lemonade for a classic summer drink that complements the cookies’ sweetness.
• Serve on a festive platter decorated with red, white, and blue accents to enhance the patriotic theme.

As Party Favors

• Package cookies in clear bags tied with red, white, and blue ribbons. This makes for a charming takeaway treat.
• Include a small note card sharing the cookie recipe as a thoughtful gesture for guests to recreate at home.

With Ice Cream

• Stack cookies with scoops of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delightful dessert sandwich that everyone will love.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

During Family Gatherings

• Set up a cookie bar where guests can customize their cookies with additional toppings like sprinkles or nuts.
• Provide milk in fun jars or bottles for dipping and pairing with the cookies.

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How to Perfect Red, White & Blue Cookies

To ensure your Red, White & Blue Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let the butter and egg sit out for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps create a creamy texture when mixed.
• Don’t overmix: Combine the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading during baking.
• Monitor baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when they are slightly underdone for a soft center.
• Add extra M&Ms: Press additional M&Ms on top of each cookie dough ball before baking for a colorful and appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White & Blue Cookies

When serving Red, White & Blue Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that complement their flavor and festive spirit.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies and adds natural sweetness.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the sweetness of the cookies while providing crunchy texture.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smokiness from grilled corn pairs well with dessert flavors and adds summer vibes to any gathering.
4. Potato Chips: Offer salty potato chips as a crunchy side; they create an enjoyable sweet-salty combination with the cookies.
5. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses to provide a savory option that can balance out the sweetness of your baked goods.
6. Mini Hot Dogs: These bite-sized treats are always a hit at parties and complement sweet desserts perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red, White & Blue Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly. Improper measurements can affect the cookie’s consistency.
• Skipping the chilling time: Failing to chill the dough can cause cookies to spread too much. Chill for at least 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven baking.
• Using stale ingredients: Check that your baking soda and other ingredients are fresh. Old ingredients can affect taste and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Red, White & Blue Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Red, White & Blue Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds per cookie; watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Red, White & Blue Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, ensure you don’t overbake them. The edges should be golden while the center remains soft.

Can I substitute ingredients in Red, White & Blue Cookies?

Yes! You can use different types of chocolate chips or seasonal candies instead of M&M’s for variety.

What occasions are perfect for serving Red, White & Blue Cookies?

These cookies are ideal for patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July or Memorial Day celebrations!

How do I store leftover Red, White & Blue Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them if you want to keep them longer.

Final Thoughts

Red, White & Blue Cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Their soft and chewy texture makes them perfect for any celebration. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make this recipe even more special!