Irresistibly Chewy Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies: The Perfect Holiday Treat
Get ready to elevate your Easter baking with a batch of my all-time favorite Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies! These delightful treats are the epitome of spring dessert: soft, wonderfully chewy on the inside, with a satisfyingly slight crunch on the exterior. Baked in a classic 8×8 inch pan, they’re bursting with vibrant pastel M&M’s, bringing a fun and festive touch to your holiday spread. Whether you’re planning a grand Easter brunch or just looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, these blondies are the perfect choice to get into the joyful Easter spirit. They’re incredibly simple to whip up, and fair warning—they’re even easier to eat, perhaps the whole pan! So, let’s dive into flavor town and discover this must-try recipe.
These golden-brown, Easter chocolate chip blondies are truly the most delightfully chewy blondies you will ever taste. While traditional Easter desserts often feature carrot cake or pies, I firmly believe that festive blondies deserve a spot at the top of your holiday baking list. This recipe has quickly become a cherished family favorite, and I’m confident it will become one of yours too. After you’ve baked and savored these delicious treats, please let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Your feedback means a lot.
With Easter just around the corner, there’s no better time to put on your apron, grab your square baking pan, and fire up that electric mixer. It’s time to create these spectacular Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies! This recipe offers a wonderful opportunity to involve the whole family in the kitchen, creating not just delicious treats but also cherished memories. The simple steps ensure success for bakers of all skill levels, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday preparations. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together and how fast they disappear!
If you’re looking for even more delightful blondie recipes to add to your repertoire, check out some of my other favorites:
- Easiest Cinnamon Roll Blondies
- Easy One Bowl Oreo Blondies
- Greatest and Best Dark Chocolate Toffee Blondies
Why You Absolutely Need to Make These Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies
As if the mere mention of “Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies” isn’t enough to pique your interest, here are even more compelling reasons why this recipe should be at the top of your list before Easter arrives!
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: In the world of baking, finding a recipe that is both simple to execute and incredibly delicious isn’t always common. This blondie recipe breaks that mold! With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have these golden delights ready in no time. Perfect for busy holiday schedules, you can bake these ASAP without any stress.
- A Chocolate Lover’s Paradise: For anyone who adores chocolate, these blondies are a dream come true. The combination of colorful, crunchy M&M’s and gooey semi-sweet chocolate chips nestled within a rich, golden-brown cookie dough base creates an irresistible symphony of textures and flavors. Each bite offers a delightful burst of chocolatey goodness.
- The Best Use for Leftover Easter Candy: We all end up with a stash of Easter candy after the holiday. Rather than letting it sit around, this recipe provides a fantastic and delicious way to repurpose those pastel M&M’s, mini Cadbury eggs, or any other chocolatey Easter treats. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to another round of deliciousness!
- The Quintessential Easter Treat: These blondies aren’t just delicious; they embody the joyous spirit of Easter. Their festive colors and comforting flavors make them an ideal addition to any Easter celebration, whether you bake them leading up to the holiday or on Easter Sunday itself. They’re guaranteed to put everyone in a celebratory mood.
- Perfect for Sharing (or Not!): While these blondies are excellent for sharing with family and friends at gatherings, they are also perfectly acceptable for a cozy night in, enjoying a moment of pure indulgence. They pack beautifully for picnics or can be given as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies
To create these divine Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies, a few key ingredients are essential. From the rich wet components to the perfectly balanced dry elements, each plays a vital role in achieving that signature chewy texture and golden-brown perfection. For a complete list of quantities, remember to consult the detailed recipe card below!
- Large Eggs (plus an extra yolk): These are crucial for both structure and moisture. Using room temperature eggs ensures they emulsify better with other ingredients, creating a smooth, cohesive batter and preventing a curdled appearance. The addition of an extra egg yolk boosts richness and contributes significantly to the blondies’ wonderfully chewy texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our blondies, providing structure. While all-purpose flour works perfectly, you can experiment with your favorite gluten-free substitute if you have dietary restrictions. Just be sure to use a blend designed for baking to achieve similar results.
- Vanilla Extract: A baking staple that enhances all the other flavors. Don’t skimp on quality here; a good pure vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference. Find my favorite here.
- Unsalted Butter: We’ll be using melted unsalted butter. Unlike some recipes where butter needs to be at room temperature, melting it here contributes to the dense, chewy texture typical of blondies, and you don’t need to plan ahead to soften it. It’s the fat that carries the flavor and creates a moist crumb.
- Light Brown Sugar: This is the secret weapon for that irresistible moistness and signature chewy texture. The molasses in brown sugar adds a depth of flavor that granulated sugar alone can’t achieve, giving blondies their characteristic golden hue and soft bite.
- Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top provides a beautiful aesthetic and, more importantly, a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the blondies. It enhances all the flavors, making them pop. If you don’t have flaky sea salt, a fine sea salt can be substituted, but you might miss that lovely visual appeal and textural crunch.
- Easter M&M’s: The star of the show for our festive touch! I absolutely adore the pastel colors of the Easter M&M’s; they are just the cutest little candies. If Easter M&M’s aren’t available, don’t fret! You can easily substitute them with Cadbury Mini Eggs, other small chocolate eggs, or even regular M&M’s for a still-delicious, though less pastel, version.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Adding another layer of chocolatey goodness, these chips melt beautifully into the blondie batter, creating pockets of rich, warm chocolate that perfectly complement the M&M’s.
- Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Cornstarch: This trio works together to give the blondies their perfect rise and soft texture without becoming cakey. The cornstarch, in particular, contributes to that desirable chewiness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies
Making these Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these helpful tips and tricks to ensure your blondies turn out perfectly golden, chewy, and utterly delicious. For the FULL, precise list of instructions and quantities, please refer to the recipe card below!
- 1. Prepare Your Baking Environment: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures your oven is at a consistent temperature when the blondies go in, promoting even baking. Next, prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish. Line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to create “handles” for easy removal of the baked blondies. Secure the parchment paper to the sides of the pan with metal binder clips to keep it in place. Finish by lightly spraying both the parchment paper and the exposed sides of the pan with cooking spray to prevent any sticking.
- 2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a spacious large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the melted (and slightly cooled) unsalted butter and the packed light brown sugar. Continue mixing until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This forms the rich, flavorful base of your blondies. Then, add the room temperature large egg, the extra large egg yolk, and the pure vanilla extract. Whisk again until all these wet ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is uniform.
- 3. Gently Fold in the Dry Ingredients and Mix-ins: Using a rubber spatula—the key to avoiding overmixing—gently fold in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cornstarch. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough blondies. Once the dry ingredients are almost incorporated, add the festive Easter M&M candies and the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue to gently fold until they are evenly distributed throughout the thick blondie batter.
- 4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Evenly spread the rich blondie batter into your prepared baking dish. Use the back of your spatula to smooth the top. Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. The blondies are ready when the top is beautifully golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking, as this will prevent them from being wonderfully chewy.
- 5. Cool and Indulge: Once baked, resist the urge to slice immediately! Remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period is vital; it allows the blondies to set properly, preventing them from crumbling when sliced and ensuring that perfect chewy texture. After cooling slightly, use the parchment paper handles to lift the entire slab of blondies out of the pan, then slice into squares and serve!
Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Blondies
Even experienced bakers can benefit from a few tried-and-true techniques! Here are some expert tips and guidelines to help you achieve the absolute best Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies every single time:
- Always Preheat the Oven Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough! Always preheat your oven for at least 20-30 minutes *before* you put your blondies in. An oven that hasn’t fully reached temperature can lead to uneven baking, blondies that don’t rise properly, and an undesirable texture. A consistently hot oven ensures a perfect bake from edge to center.
- The Magic of Parchment Paper: Lining your 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper is a game-changer. Not only does it make removing the entire slab of blondies incredibly easy, allowing for neat slicing, but it also simplifies cleanup. The metal binder clips are fantastic for keeping the paper securely in place while you spread the batter.
- Room Temperature Eggs for a Smooth Batter: For the creamiest, most cohesive batter, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. Cold eggs don’t emulsify well with melted butter and sugar, which can result in a lumpy, “curdled” looking batter and a less uniform final product. A smooth batter equals smooth, perfect blondies!
- Avoid the Dreaded Overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch), mix on a slow speed or, even better, use a rubber spatula to gently fold them in. Mix just until everything is combined and no dry streaks of flour are visible. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, dense blondies rather than the desired chewy, soft texture.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal: For extra eye candy and a beautiful finish, reserve a small handful of M&M candies and chocolate chips. Sprinkle these evenly across the top of the blondie batter just before baking. This ensures some colorful M&M’s and melted chocolate chips are visible on the surface, making them even more appealing.
- Precision in Measuring Dry Ingredients: Baking is a science, and accuracy matters. For dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and baking powder, spoon the ingredient into your measuring cup and then level it off with the back of a knife. Avoid scooping directly with the measuring cup, as this compacts the ingredient and can lead to using too much. For ultimate precision, consider using a kitchen scale.
- Patience is a Virtue: Proper Cooling: It’s tempting to cut into warm blondies, but allowing them to cool completely (or at least significantly) in the pan is essential. This allows the internal structure to set, preventing them from being crumbly and ensuring they hold their shape beautifully when sliced. Warm blondies are delicious, but a fully cooled blondie provides the ideal chewy experience.
My Go-To Baking Essentials for This Recipe!
Curious about the tools I rely on to make these delicious Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies? I’ve listed all my favorite kitchen essentials below that help make the baking process a breeze and ensure perfect results every time:
- 8×8-inch Baking Dish: This is the perfect size for a manageable batch of blondies. A high-quality pan ensures even heat distribution, leading to perfectly baked edges and a gooey center. This particular pan is durable and consistently delivers excellent results.
- Parchment Paper: An absolute must for easy removal and cleanup! Using parchment paper to line your baking dish means your blondies will never stick, and you can lift them out of the pan effortlessly for slicing. This brand is reliable and handles high heat without issues.
- Metal Binder Clips: A simple yet brilliant hack for securing your parchment paper. These clips ensure the paper stays flush against the sides of the pan, preventing the batter from seeping underneath and keeping your blondies perfectly shaped.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for comfortable mixing, especially when adding dry ingredients and mix-ins. I personally love ones with a spout for easy pouring of wet ingredients, minimizing mess.
- Whisk: Perfect for combining the melted butter and brown sugar, ensuring a smooth and consistent base for your blondie batter. A good quality whisk makes a noticeable difference.
- Rubber Spatula: An indispensable tool for gently folding in dry ingredients and mix-ins. Its flexibility allows you to scrape down the sides of the bowl effectively without overworking the batter, crucial for tender blondies. I love a good sturdy spatula that can handle thick batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are the foundation of successful baking. Investing in a reliable set ensures consistency in your recipes. Here are some practical stainless steel ones that last forever, and for a touch of elegance, here are some cute acacia wood and gold ones.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first! Always use reliable oven mitts when handling hot baking dishes. These protect your hands and prevent accidents. I think these dog-themed ones are cute, but for sheer practicality and heat resistance, these are my top pick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easter M&M Blondies
Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying these festive blondies:
Q: Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, absolutely! You can certainly substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar in this recipe. Dark brown sugar contains more molasses, which will impart a slightly richer, deeper, and more caramel-like flavor to your blondies. It might also result in a slightly darker color and an even chewier texture, which many people love!
Q: Can I use a different size baking dish?
Using a different size baking dish will indeed affect the thickness of your blondies and, consequently, the baking time. If you opt for a larger pan (e.g., a 9×13 inch), your blondies will be thinner, and the baking time will likely be shorter. For a 9×13 inch pan, I recommend doubling the recipe to achieve a good thickness, and you’ll need to adjust the baking time down by a few minutes, checking frequently for doneness.
Q: How long will the blondies stay fresh?
Freshly baked blondies are at their absolute best within the first 2-3 days after baking. Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they will maintain their delicious chewiness for up to 3-4 days. While they may start to lose a little moisture and become slightly drier after a few days, they are still perfectly enjoyable if stored correctly. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option!
Q: What if I can’t find Easter M&M’s?
No worries at all! If you can’t get your hands on the festive Easter M&M’s, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. You can use regular M&M’s, mini Cadbury eggs (these are fantastic!), chopped creme eggs, or simply extra semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. White chocolate chips or even chopped nuts would also make wonderful additions if you want to change up the flavor profile.
Storing and Freezing Your Delicious Blondies
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Easter M&M Blondies for as long as possible. Once baked, ensure the blondies are completely cooled to room temperature before storing. Cutting into them while warm can release moisture, making them dry out faster. After cooling, transfer the blondies to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay wonderfully fresh and chewy at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to extend their freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration can alter their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer, but they will still be delicious!
Freezing for Future Enjoyment – M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies
These Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping desserts or saving some for a rainy day. To freeze, first ensure the blondies are entirely cooled. This prevents condensation from forming and leading to ice crystals, which can negatively impact texture. Once cooled, wrap individual blondie squares (or the whole slab, if preferred) tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn and preserves their flavor and texture. Place the wrapped blondies in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without a noticeable decline in quality. To enjoy, thaw the blondies in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick treat, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and gooey again. Freezing is a fantastic way to extend the life of these delicious holiday treats!
Pro Tip: For an extra special dessert experience, serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm, chewy blondie and cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine!
For more fantastic Easter recipes to complete your holiday feast, explore these other delicious ideas:
- Carrot Crumb Cookies: The Best Cookie Ever
- Brown Butter Carrot Cake
- The Best Cinnamon Roll Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Nostalgic Fudgy Lunch Lady Brownies Recipe
If you loved this recipe and baked a batch of these glorious Easter M&M Chocolate Chip Blondies, please remember to LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW AND A COMMENT! I love hearing from you and seeing your creations. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you might have. Also, make sure to follow me on social media for more fun baking ideas, tips, and behind-the-scenes content! You can find me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. I post so many exciting things on all platforms!
Recipe
Easter M&M Blondies
Molly Murphy
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
For The Blondies
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
- ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour spoon and leveled
- 1 cup Easter M&M
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, using metal binder clips to secure the parchment paper to the sides. Lightly spray the sides and the bottom of the pan with cooking spray.
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter and the packed light brown sugar until well combined.
-
Add the room temperature egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
-
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, salt, M&M candies, and semi-sweet chocolate chunks until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Do not overmix; you want a thick blondie batter.
-
Evenly spread the blondie batter in the baking dish.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You want the top to be nice and golden.
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Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.