I am beyond excited to share this Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe with you. It’s one of those desserts I turn to when I want something festive, colorful, and absolutely delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of rich browned butter, sweet brown sugar, and those cheerful holiday M&Ms creates a chewy, buttery blondie that always brings smiles. If you love simple recipes that deliver wow-worthy results, you’re going to adore this one as much as I do.
Why You’ll Love This Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe
From the very first bite, I found myself hooked on the sweet, buttery flavor mingled with pockets of melty chocolate and crunchy holiday M&Ms. The browned butter adds this incredible nutty depth that elevates every forkful beyond a typical blondie. The taste is just the right balance of chewy sweetness and chocolatey bursts, perfect for satisfying any dessert craving, especially during festive seasons.
What makes this Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe really close to my heart is how effortless it is to make. I love that it doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complicated steps. The ingredients are straightforward, and the process is all about mixing and folding with simple techniques. This makes it ideal for when I want a crowd-pleasing treat for holiday parties, baking with kids, or last-minute guest visits. It stands out because it’s not only delicious but also a cheerful and quick way to add some color and joy to any celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, taste, and festive look. These simple pantry staples come together effortlessly to form a blondie that’s both chewy and packed with delightful bursts of chocolate and candy colors.
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, browned: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s the secret to deep, luscious blondies.
- 2 cups light brown sugar, firmly packed: Provides sweetness and moisture, keeping the blondies chewy.
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 2 large eggs plus one egg yolk, at room temperature: Binds the ingredients and gives the blondies their tender crumb.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the blondie, giving structure without being heavy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the chocolate and M&Ms.
- 2 cups holiday M&Ms: Adds festive color and a fun crunch with every bite.
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts inside the blondies for gooey chocolate pockets.
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional): Introduces a wonderful finishing touch that elevates the sweet and salty contrast.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper hangs over the edges for easy removal later. Spray the parchment and any exposed parts of the pan with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Place the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and gently melt it until it turns browned, taking care not to burn it. You’ll see the butter foam and then turn a lovely golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Scrape the browned butter into a large, heatproof bowl so you don’t lose any flavor left in the pan.
Step 3: Whisk the brown sugar vigorously into the browned butter until fully combined, smooth, and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with that delightful cozy scent. Then, beat in the eggs and extra egg yolk one at a time until the mixture is silky and homogenous.
Step 4: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined—don’t overmix! You want to keep the batter tender. Finally, fold in the festive holiday M&Ms and semi-sweet chocolate chips, spreading them evenly through the batter for surprise bursts of sweetness.
Step 5: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top with the spatula. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges turn golden and firm but the center is still slightly wobbly. Resist the urge to bake it completely firm; that wobble guarantees a moist, chewy center.
Step 6: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. If you want, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before cutting – it adds that perfect sweet-salty touch that makes this treat irresistible. Use the parchment to lift the blondies out of the pan and slice into squares to serve.
Servings and Timing
This Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe makes a generous 9×13-inch pan of blondies, perfect for about 15 to 20 servings depending on how big you cut the squares. Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and bake time is 28 to 32 minutes. Including cooling, you’ll have these ready to enjoy in about 55 minutes total. The resting time is crucial to let the blondies set so they cut cleanly and maintain that perfect chewy texture.
How to Serve This Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe
I love serving these blondies a bit warm so you can still enjoy the melted chocolate chips and tender crumb. They’re fantastic on their own, but I also enjoy pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to take the indulgence to the next level. For holiday gatherings, they make a vibrant centerpiece on a dessert platter alongside other festive sweets.
Presentation-wise, sprinkling flaky sea salt on top right before serving never fails to impress family and friends. You can also add some extra whole M&Ms on top before baking for a cheerful look. If serving at a party, I like placing the blondies on a pretty cake stand or rustic wooden board to create a cozy, inviting vibe. These are perfect for holiday dessert tables, cookie exchanges, or even cozy weeknight treats.
Beverage pairings are fun to explore too! I often enjoy a glass of creamy eggnog or a rich hot chocolate alongside these blondies during the holidays. For adults, a lightly chilled glass of dessert wine or even a spiced cocktail complements the sweet and buttery flavors wonderfully. They also travel well, making them great for potlucks and family brunches, and they’re just as delicious at room temperature after a day or two.
Variations
One of the best parts about the Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe is how flexible it is. If you want to switch up the candy, using peanut butter or white chocolate M&Ms works beautifully for a different flavor twist. You can also swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips with butterscotch or dark chocolate chips depending on your preference.
For those needing dietary modifications, this recipe can be adapted to gluten-free by using a trusted gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour—just make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Vegan versions are possible by using vegan butter substitutes and egg replacements like flaxseed or chia “eggs,” though the texture may vary slightly.
If I’m in a rush and want even more fudgy blondies, I sometimes reduce the baking time by a few minutes and serve them a bit underbaked for a gooier center. Alternatively, you can bake smaller batches as cookies in a muffin tin for portable treats. The possibilities are endless, and I love encouraging friends to tweak this recipe to suit their taste buds while keeping it super easy.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I always store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they stay soft and chewy for up to 3 days. If it’s warm or humid, I prefer to keep them in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a container to preserve freshness for about 5 days. Just bring them to room temperature before enjoying to bring back their tender texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes really well, which is great if you want to make it ahead of time. I wrap individual blondie pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They keep perfectly in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To revive the blondies, I recommend warming them gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to get them soft and melty again—watch closely so they don’t overheat and dry out. Reheating in a low oven (300°F) for 5-10 minutes wrapped in foil also works well if you prefer a slightly warm treat. Avoid overheating since that can make the blondies tough or dry.
FAQs
Can I use regular M&Ms instead of holiday M&Ms?
Absolutely! Regular M&Ms will work just fine and still give you that classic crunch and chocolate burst. The holiday M&Ms just add a festive pop of color perfect for special occasions.
What can I use if I don’t have light brown sugar?
If you don’t have light brown sugar, dark brown sugar or even a mix of white sugar and molasses can be used. The brown sugar provides moisture and a caramel-like flavor, so try to replicate that for best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend is a great option. I recommend using one designed for baking to maintain the chewy texture, and be sure to check if your other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Look for firm, golden edges and a center that still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. This ensures the inside remains moist and gooey without being undercooked.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Conclusion
I hope you feel inspired to try this Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe because it truly is one of my favorite go-to treats that brings joy and effortless deliciousness to any occasion. The combination of browned butter, melty chocolate, and festive candy in a chewy blondie is something I always enjoy sharing with friends and family. Give it a whirl and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
PrintSuper Easy Holiday M&M Blondies Recipe
These Super Easy Holiday M&M Blondies combine the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with sweet holiday M&Ms and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a festive, chewy treat that’s perfect for any celebration. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe delivers soft, fudgy blondies dotted with colorful candy and a hint of sea salt for a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 9×13-inch pan (approximately 16-20 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, melted until browned
- 2 cups light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs plus one egg yolk, at room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 2 cups holiday M&Ms
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper. Spray the parchment and any exposed parts of the pan with nonstick baking spray to ensure easy removal later. Set aside.
- Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, allowing it to brown slightly to develop a nutty aroma and rich flavor. Once browned, remove the pan from heat and let the butter cool for a few minutes. Then scrape it into a large heatproof mixing bowl.
- Combine Sugar and Eggs: Whisk the light brown sugar into the browned butter until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract for fragrance. Add the 2 large eggs and one egg yolk to the mixture, beating thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Candy: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the blondies tender. Fold in the holiday M&Ms and semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter. Scrape the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. The blondies are done when the edges are firm and golden, yet the center remains slightly wobbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting.
- Serve: Optional—sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavor contrast. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to help them incorporate better into the batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid tough blondies.
- Allow blondies to cool properly in the pan to set and cut cleanly.
- Brown butter adds a deeper, nutty flavor that you don’t want to skip.
- Flaky sea salt is optional but highly recommended for a delightful contrast.
