Ingredients

2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature

1 cup dark brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 cups old fashioned oats

1 1/4 cups holiday M&M’s

1 cup mini pretzel sticks, crushed

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Beat in the 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt to the bowl. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Stir in the old fashioned oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Fold in 1 cup of the holiday M&M’s, crushed pretzels, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips.

Step 7: Roll the dough into balls roughly 1/4 cup in size. Place them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.

Step 8: Bake for 8 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet for even baking and continue baking for another 2 minutes.

Step 9: Remove the pan from the oven and gently press the remaining M&M’s onto the tops of the cookies. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. They will firm up as they rest. Enjoy them warm for the best gooey texture, or allow them to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, try adding 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans along with the other mix-ins.

You can substitute pretzels with your favorite crunchy cereal for a different texture.

Use regular M&M’s if holiday colors aren’t available.

Allow the dough to chill for 30 minutes before baking to minimize spreading if needed.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

This recipe calls for salted butter, which enhances the flavor. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch more salt to the dough to balance the sweetness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free. The cookies should turn out just as delicious.