Melting Moments No More: Delicious Recipes Inspired by the Invention of M&M’s

Have you ever wondered about the origin of those colorful, melt-in-your-mouth candies we all know and love as M&M’s? Beyond their delightful taste, there’s a fascinating story behind their invention, a story rooted in solving a very specific problem: chocolate that wouldn’t melt in warm weather. This article delves into the history of M&M’s and provides a collection of delectable recipes showcasing how to incorporate these iconic candies into your baking and dessert creations.

## The Story Behind the Shell: A Chocolate Revolution

The tale of M&M’s begins in the late 1930s, amidst the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War. Forrest Mars Sr., the son of Frank C. Mars (founder of Mars, Incorporated), observed soldiers eating chocolate pellets coated in a hard sugar shell. This ingenious design prevented the chocolate from melting in the hot conditions, allowing the soldiers to enjoy a sweet treat without the mess. Intrigued by this innovative solution, Forrest Mars returned to the United States with the idea firmly planted in his mind.

In 1941, Forrest Mars Sr. partnered with Bruce Murrie, the son of Hershey Chocolate’s president, William Murrie. Together, they secured the necessary resources and technology to bring the hard-shelled chocolate candies to the American market. The name “M&M’s” was derived from the initials of their last names – Mars and Murrie. During World War II, M&M’s were exclusively sold to the U.S. military, becoming a staple in soldiers’ rations and further solidifying their reputation for portability and resistance to melting.

After the war, M&M’s were introduced to the general public and quickly gained immense popularity. The iconic slogan, “Melts in your mouth, not in your hand,” perfectly captured the candy’s unique selling proposition. Over the years, M&M’s expanded their product line, introducing various flavors, colors, and sizes, becoming a global phenomenon loved by people of all ages.

## From Candy to Culinary Delight: Recipes Featuring M&M’s

Now that we’ve explored the history of M&M’s, let’s dive into the exciting world of recipes. These recipes showcase the versatility of M&M’s, demonstrating how they can be used to add a pop of color, a burst of flavor, and a touch of fun to a wide range of desserts.

### 1. M&M’s Cookies: A Classic with a Colorful Twist

This recipe elevates the traditional chocolate chip cookie by incorporating M&M’s, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant visual appeal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in M&M’s:** Gently fold in the M&M’s.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

**Tips & Variations:**
* For extra chewy cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
* Use different varieties of M&M’s for different flavor combinations, such as peanut M&M’s or pretzel M&M’s.
* Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.

### 2. M&M’s Brownies: Fudgy Goodness with a Colorful Crunch

Transform ordinary brownies into a decadent treat by adding M&M’s for a burst of color and a satisfying crunch.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. **Melt Butter and Cocoa:** In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. **Add Vanilla and Eggs:** Stir in the vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time.
4. **Gradually Add Flour:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Fold in M&M’s:** Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the M&M’s. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. **Top with M&M’s:** Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of M&M’s over the top of the batter.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
9. **Cool:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

**Tips & Variations:**
* For extra fudgy brownies, underbake them slightly.
* Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an even richer chocolate flavor.
* Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brownies for a beautiful presentation.

### 3. M&M’s Rice Krispie Treats: A No-Bake Delight with a Colorful Twist

These no-bake treats are perfect for a quick and easy dessert, and the addition of M&M’s makes them even more festive and fun.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
* 10 oz marshmallows
* 1 cup M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
3. **Remove from Heat:** Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. **Stir in Cereal and M&M’s:** Add the Rice Krispies cereal and M&M’s to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir until well combined.
5. **Press into Pan:** Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let the treats cool completely before cutting into squares.

**Tips & Variations:**
* For softer treats, use more marshmallows.
* Add a few drops of food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture for even more vibrant treats.
* Use different varieties of M&M’s to match a specific theme or holiday.

### 4. M&M’s Blondies: A Buttery and Chewy Treat with a Colorful Pop

Blondies, the vanilla counterpart to brownies, are a delicious treat on their own, but the addition of M&M’s elevates them to a whole new level.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir until well combined.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in M&M’s:** Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the M&M’s. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Top with M&M’s:** Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of M&M’s over the top of the batter.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
10. **Cool:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

**Tips & Variations:**
* Add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
* Use different varieties of M&M’s for different flavor combinations.
* Top the blondies with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.

### 5. M&M’s Pancakes: A Fun and Festive Breakfast Treat

Start your day with a smile by adding M&M’s to your favorite pancake recipe. These colorful pancakes are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 1 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1/2 cup M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. **Fold in M&M’s:** Gently fold in the M&M’s.
5. **Cook Pancakes:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
6. **Flip and Cook:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, and extra M&M’s.

**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a few drops of food coloring to the batter for even more colorful pancakes.
* Use different varieties of M&M’s to match a specific theme or holiday.
* Top the pancakes with fresh fruit, such as berries or bananas.

### 6. M&M’s Popcorn Balls: A Sweet and Salty Snack

These popcorn balls are a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for parties or movie nights. The combination of sweet marshmallows, salty popcorn, and colorful M&M’s is irresistible.

**Ingredients:**

* 8 cups popped popcorn
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
* 10 oz marshmallows
* 1/2 cup M&M’s (any variety)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
3. **Remove from Heat:** Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. **Stir in Popcorn and M&M’s:** Add the popped popcorn and M&M’s to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir until well combined.
5. **Form into Balls:** Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then use your hands to form into balls.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the popcorn balls cool completely before serving.

**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a non-stick spray on your hands to prevent the popcorn from sticking.
* Wrap the popcorn balls individually in plastic wrap for easy serving and storage.
* Add other candies or nuts to the popcorn balls for added flavor and texture.

### 7. M&M’s Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Cool and Colorful Treat

These ice cream sandwiches are a fun and easy way to enjoy your favorite ice cream. The M&M-coated edges add a touch of color and crunch.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package (about 12) store-bought cookies (chocolate chip or sugar cookies work well)
* Your favorite ice cream, softened
* 1 cup M&M’s (any variety), crushed

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare Cookies:** Lay the cookies out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. **Soften Ice Cream:** Allow the ice cream to soften slightly, but not completely melt.
3. **Spread Ice Cream:** Spread a layer of softened ice cream on the flat side of half of the cookies.
4. **Top with Cookies:** Top with the remaining cookies, flat side down, to create sandwiches.
5. **Roll in M&M’s:** Gently roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in the crushed M&M’s.
6. **Freeze:** Wrap the ice cream sandwiches individually in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
7. **Serve:** Serve the ice cream sandwiches straight from the freezer.

**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different varieties of cookies and ice cream to create different flavor combinations.
* Dip the entire ice cream sandwich in melted chocolate before rolling it in M&M’s for an extra decadent treat.
* Use sprinkles instead of M&M’s for a different colorful coating.

## Conclusion: M&M’s – A Timeless Treat with Endless Possibilities

From their humble beginnings as a solution to melting chocolate during wartime to their current status as a global candy icon, M&M’s have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of generations. Their colorful shells, delicious chocolate centers, and unique melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a versatile ingredient for a wide range of recipes. So, whether you’re baking cookies, making brownies, or creating no-bake treats, don’t forget to add a touch of M&M’s for a burst of color, flavor, and fun. The possibilities are endless! The next time you reach for a bag of M&M’s, remember the story behind the shell and the countless ways you can incorporate them into your culinary creations. Enjoy!