Introduction
Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a batch of Cupid’s Trash Can Cookies? These delightful treats are a whimsical combination of flavors and textures that will surely sweep your loved ones off their feet. With a rich blend of chocolate, creamy white chocolate, festive M&M’s, and crunchy cookie pieces, every bite feels like a warm hug! Whether you’re baking for a romantic evening or a cheerful gathering with friends, these cookies will bring smiles and sweetness all around.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup M&M’s (preferably Valentine-themed)
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 30-32 minutes
Yield: 24-36 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step will ensure that your cookies don’t stick and come out perfectly!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will create a lovely base for your cookies.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Then, stir in the fragrant vanilla extract for that perfect aroma.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep those cookies tender!
- Now comes the fun part! Stir in the oats, semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, M&M’s, and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Make sure they are well distributed throughout the dough for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow them to spread.
- Pop the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden brown, creating a mouthwatering sight!
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set while keeping them soft and chewy.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the types of chips or candies based on your preference. Peanut butter chips could add an exciting twist!
- These cookies also freeze beautifully. Just store them in an airtight container, and you’ll have sweet treats ready at any time!
- For extra festive flair, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cookie baking is all about technique. Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming, which helps incorporate air for that light texture. Always bake cookies on lined sheets for easy removal, and let them cool slightly on the sheet to prevent breakage. Lastly, measure your ingredients accurately to get the best results every time!
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While you can use margarine, using unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How do I know when my cookies are done? Look for the edges to be golden brown; the centers might look a little soft, but they will continue to bake on the cooling rack.
Are these cookies customizable? Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap out the oats for a gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
These Cupid’s Trash Can Cookies are not just a treat; they are a joyful celebration of flavors that embody the spirit of love and togetherness. Perfect for sharing with your special someone or enjoying as a delightful sweet bite while you cozy up with a good book. So, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these lovely cookies—they’re sure to become a favorite in your Valentine’s Day lineup!