M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Extravaganza: Decadent Recipes You’ll Adore
Get ready for a flavor explosion! If you’re a fan of the sweet and creamy goodness of M&M’s Strawberries & Creme flavor, then you’ve come to the right place. This blog post is dedicated to showcasing delicious and innovative recipes that put this delightful candy at the heart of the show. We’ll explore everything from easy-to-make treats to more elaborate desserts that will impress your friends and family. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of M&M’s Strawberries & Creme!
Why M&M’s Strawberries & Creme?
Before we get into the recipes, let’s talk about why M&M’s Strawberries & Creme are so special. This flavor combination is a symphony of textures and tastes. The classic M&M’s chocolate shell gives way to a smooth, creamy, and subtly tart filling that perfectly captures the essence of fresh strawberries dipped in sweet cream. The balance of sweet and slightly tangy makes them incredibly addictive, and they add a unique twist to any dessert.
Recipe 1: No-Bake M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Cheesecake Bites
These no-bake cheesecake bites are the perfect treat for a hot summer day or when you simply don’t feel like turning on the oven. They are quick, easy, and require minimal ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
* 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme, roughly chopped
* Optional: Fresh strawberries for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or individual cupcake liners.
2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. **Fold in the Whipped Cream and M&M’s:** Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and airy. Then, fold in the chopped M&M’s Strawberries & Creme, reserving a few for garnish.
4. **Assemble and Chill:** Pour the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved M&M’s on top. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Cut the cheesecake into squares or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes. Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired. These cheesecake bites are best served cold.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a richer crust, add a tablespoon of sugar to the graham cracker crumb mixture.
* If you don’t have whipped cream, you can use Cool Whip instead.
* Add a layer of strawberry jam between the crust and the filling for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
* For individual servings, use cupcake liners and press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each liner. The filling can be piped into the liners for a neater presentation.
Recipe 2: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Cookies
These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the irresistible flavor of M&M’s Strawberries & Creme. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 ½ cups M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your 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. Use an electric mixer for best results.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the 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. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Fold in M&M’s:** Fold in the M&M’s Strawberries & Creme. Reserve a few to press into the tops of the cookies before baking, if desired.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. If desired, gently press a few extra M&M’s into the tops of the cookies.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still be 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 and Variations:**
* For chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
* Add a ½ cup of chopped white chocolate for an even creamier flavor.
* Use a cookie scoop to ensure that the cookies are uniform in size.
* If you want flatter cookies, slightly flatten the dough with the palm of your hand before baking.
Recipe 3: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Popcorn Balls
These popcorn balls are a fun and festive treat that are perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet snack. The combination of crunchy popcorn, sweet marshmallows, and the creamy strawberry flavor of M&M’s is irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 cups popped popcorn
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 10 ounces marshmallows
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. **Add Vanilla:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Pour Marshmallow Mixture over Popcorn:** Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn, stirring gently to coat all of the popcorn evenly.
5. **Add M&M’s:** Gently fold in the M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
6. **Form Popcorn Balls:** While the mixture is still warm, lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. Quickly form the popcorn mixture into balls, about 3 inches in diameter. Work quickly, as the mixture will start to set as it cools.
7. **Cool and Set:** Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper to cool and set completely. This will take about 30 minutes to an hour.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use freshly popped popcorn for the best flavor and texture.
* Add a pinch of salt to the marshmallow mixture to balance the sweetness.
* For a fun twist, drizzle the popcorn balls with melted white chocolate after they have set.
* Wrap the popcorn balls individually in cellophane bags and tie with ribbon for a cute party favor.
Recipe 4: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Milkshake
Cool off with this decadent milkshake that’s bursting with strawberry and cream flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* ½ cup milk
* ½ cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
* Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
* Extra M&M’s, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more ice cream.
3. **Pour and Serve:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream and extra M&M’s, if desired.
4. **Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a thicker milkshake, freeze the M&M’s for about 30 minutes before blending.
* Add a tablespoon of strawberry syrup for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
* Rim the glass with crushed M&M’s for a more festive presentation.
* Use strawberry ice cream instead of vanilla ice cream for an even more intense strawberry flavor.
Recipe 5: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Bark
This bark is incredibly easy to make and perfect for gifting or snacking. The combination of melted chocolate and M&M’s creates a visually appealing and delicious treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces white chocolate chips
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
* Optional: Sprinkles
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
3. **Add M&M’s:** Immediately sprinkle the M&M’s Strawberries & Creme over the melted chocolate. If using, add sprinkles.
4. **Chill:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Once the chocolate is set, break it into pieces. Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor.
* Add a pinch of salt to the melted chocolate to balance the sweetness.
* Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate for a more complex flavor profile.
* Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for extra crunch.
Recipe 6: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Rice Krispie Treats
Elevate the classic Rice Krispie treat by adding M&M’s Strawberries & Creme for a fun and flavorful twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
* 10 ounces marshmallows
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. **Add Vanilla:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Pour over Rice Krispies:** Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring gently to coat all of the cereal evenly.
5. **Add M&M’s:** Gently fold in the M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
6. **Press into Pan:** Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a piece of parchment paper or a greased spatula to prevent sticking.
7. **Cool and Cut:** Let the treats cool completely before cutting them into squares.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture.
* Add a pinch of salt to the marshmallow mixture to balance the sweetness.
* For extra flavor, melt a small amount of white chocolate and drizzle it over the treats after they have set.
* Cut the treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
Recipe 7: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Cupcakes
These cupcakes are moist, fluffy, and bursting with the flavors of strawberry and cream. Topped with a creamy frosting and M&M’s, they’re the perfect treat for any celebration.
**Ingredients (Cupcakes):**
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup milk
* ½ cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme, chopped
**Ingredients (Frosting):**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme, for topping
**Instructions (Cupcakes):**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fold in M&M’s:** Gently fold in the chopped M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
7. **Fill Cupcake Liners:** Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool:** Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Instructions (Frosting):**
1. **Cream Butter:** In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Alternate with milk to get desired consistency.
3. **Add Vanilla:** Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Frost Cupcakes:** Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the buttercream frosting. Sprinkle with extra M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a tablespoon of strawberry puree to the cupcake batter.
* Use a piping bag and tip to create decorative frosting designs.
* Add a drop of pink food coloring to the frosting for a pretty pastel color.
* Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Recipe 8: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Blondies
These blondies are chewy, buttery, and packed with the sweet flavor of M&M’s Strawberries & Creme. They’re a delicious alternative to traditional brownies and are sure to be a hit with everyone.
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* ¼ teaspoon baking powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Mix well. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. **Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Fold in M&M’s:** Fold in the M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For chewier blondies, underbake them slightly.
* Add chopped white chocolate or macadamia nuts for extra flavor and texture.
* Drizzle melted white chocolate over the blondies after they have cooled.
* Serve the blondies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Recipe 9: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Parfaits
These parfaits are a delightful and easy dessert that combines layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and the sweet flavor of M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla yogurt
* 1 cup granola
* 1 cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme
* Optional: Fresh strawberries, sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble Parfaits:** In individual serving glasses or bowls, layer the yogurt, granola, and M&M’s Strawberries & Creme. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.
2. **Garnish:** Top with fresh strawberries, if desired.
3. **Serve:** Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use Greek yogurt for a tangier and thicker parfait.
* Add other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for extra flavor and nutrients.
* Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the parfaits for added sweetness.
* Use a variety of granola flavors for different textures and tastes.
Recipe 10: M&M’s Strawberries & Creme Stuffed Strawberries
These stuffed strawberries are an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer or dessert. The creamy filling and sweet M&M’s make them a delightful treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound large fresh strawberries
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup M&M’s Strawberries & Creme, finely chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Strawberries:** Wash the strawberries and pat them dry. Cut off the stems and carefully hollow out the centers of the strawberries using a small knife or spoon.
2. **Make Filling:** In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the chopped M&M’s Strawberries & Creme.
3. **Fill Strawberries:** Fill the hollowed-out strawberries with the cream cheese mixture. You can use a piping bag for a neater presentation.
4. **Chill:** Chill the stuffed strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Dip the stuffed strawberries in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
* Add a tablespoon of strawberry jam to the cream cheese filling for a more intense strawberry flavor.
* Sprinkle the stuffed strawberries with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
* Use different types of cream cheese, such as flavored cream cheese, for added variety.
Conclusion
As you can see, M&M’s Strawberries & Creme are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of desserts and treats. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a more elaborate dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, go ahead and try them out, and don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with your own variations. Happy baking!