The Holiday M&M Skillet Cookie is a fun, colorful twist on the classic cookie, baked right in a skillet! It’s packed with gooey melted chocolate chips and festive red and green M&M’s that make it perfect for spreading holiday cheer. The edges get nice and crispy while the center stays soft and chewy—it’s basically cookie perfection in one pan.
I love making this skillet cookie because it’s so simple and quick, yet feels extra special with those bright holiday colors. Whenever I pull it out of the oven, the house instantly smells like a cozy winter treat, and sneaking bites right from the skillet is one of my favorite little pleasures. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re sharing at a party or just having a sweet night in.
A tip I always use is to let the cookie cool just a bit before digging in; it helps those M&M’s keep their shape and the cookie to set just right. I like to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—that combo is magic and always gets smiles all around. This skillet cookie is a simple way to add a little festive fun to any holiday gathering or snack time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter helps control the saltiness. If you don’t have butter, you could use coconut oil, but your cookie may be less rich and a bit softer.
Sugars: Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, while granulated sugar helps with crisp edges. You can try all brown sugar for a softer cookie or swap with coconut sugar for deeper flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, but expect a small texture change.
M&M’s & Chocolate chips: Holiday-colored M&M’s give a festive look. You can swap these for regular M&M’s or even other candy-coated chocolates. Semi-sweet chips balance the sweetness well, but milk or dark chocolate chips also work.
How Can I Get a Chewy Center and Crisp Edges in My Skillet Cookie?
The key here is timing and temperature. Bake at 350°F, but keep an eye on the cookie near the end. You want edges golden and firm, while the center stays soft but set.
- Don’t overmix the dough; mix until just combined to avoid toughness.
- Line the skillet with parchment to prevent sticking and help easy removal.
- After baking, let the cookie cool for 10 minutes. This helps the center finish setting without getting hard.
- Press extra M&M’s on top before baking—they won’t melt much and add a fun crunch and color.
Following these tips will give you that classic skillet cookie texture that’s crispy on the edges and soft in the middle every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8-inch cast-iron skillet – I like using it because it heats evenly and makes a great presentation.
- Mixing bowls – useful for combining the ingredients smoothly.
- Electric hand mixer or whisk – makes creaming the butter and sugars easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keeps your ingredients just right.
- Parchment paper – helps remove the cookie easily and keeps the skillet clean.
- Oven – for baking the cookie to golden perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap M&M’s for other candies like peanut M&Ms or crushed peppermint for different flavors and colors.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
- Mix in white chocolate chips or caramel pieces to make it extra sweet and gooey.
- Use dark chocolate chips and some sea salt on top after baking for a refined version.
Holiday M&M Skillet Cookie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup holiday-themed M&M’s (red, green, white, and some blue)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow another 10 minutes for cooling before slicing. So, in around 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, festive skillet cookie to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skillet and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch cast iron skillet with parchment paper, leaving some extra paper hanging over the edges to help you lift the cookie out later.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or a whisk to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is combined well.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
4. Add Chocolate and M&M’s
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and about half of your holiday-colored M&M’s. Save the rest for topping.
5. Assemble and Bake
Transfer the cookie dough into your prepared skillet, spreading it evenly. Press the remaining M&M’s gently on top for a festive look. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center looks set but still soft.
6. Cool and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cookie cool for about 10 minutes to firm up slightly. Then slice and serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like for an extra special treat!
Can I Use a Different Pan Instead of a Cast Iron Skillet?
Yes! You can use an oven-safe baking dish or a regular round cake pan if you don’t have a cast iron skillet. Just be sure to line it with parchment paper and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
Can I Substitute the M&M’s with Other Candies?
Absolutely. Feel free to swap the holiday-themed M&M’s with regular M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or even chopped candy canes for a minty twist. Just keep the amount similar for balanced sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftover Skillet Cookie?
Store any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To enjoy warm again, reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bring the dough to room temperature before spreading it in the skillet and baking.