PREPARATION:

1st Step:

Turn the oven temperature up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it gently.

2nd Step:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3rd Step:

To the melted butter and sugar, stir in the smooth peanut butter. Add the egg and vanilla essence and beat until combined.

4th Step:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Combine the dry and wet components gradually, mixing just until a dough forms. It’s important not to over-stir.

5th Step:

Toss in the M&Ms, being careful not to crush them, and save aside a little amount to use as a garnish by pressing into the cookies’ surfaces. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving approximately 2 inches between each ball. Use the back of a fork to gently flatten each ball of dough.

6th Step:

Use the reserved M&M candies to decorate the tops of the cookies. Put into the oven at the predetermined temperature and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Even though the cookies seem underdone in the middle, they will firm up as they cool.