M&M’s Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, incorporating the iconic candy-coated chocolates known as M&M’s into a rich and fudgy chocolate base. M&M’s, originally created by Forrest Mars Sr. in the 1940s, have become one of the world’s most beloved candies, known for their vibrant colors and crunchy texture.

The story of M&M’s begins during World War II when Forrest Mars Sr., the son of the founder of Mars, Inc., observed soldiers in the Spanish Civil War eating small chocolate pellets encased in a hard sugar coating. This protective shell prevented the chocolates from melting in the soldiers’ hands and also made them more portable. Inspired by this observation, Mars partnered with Bruce Murrie, the son of Hershey Chocolate’s president, and together they developed the M&M’s candy.

The “M&M” in the name stands for “Mars & Murrie,” honoring the collaboration between Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie. The candy was first introduced to the public in 1941 and quickly gained popularity due to its unique candy-coated design, which made it ideal for sharing and enjoying on the go.

Since then, M&M’s have become a staple candy worldwide and have been incorporated into various recipes, including M&M’s Brownies. These brownies combine the joy of chocolate with the colorful and crunchy sweetness of M&M’s, creating a treat that appeals to kids and adults alike.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups mini M&M’s candies, divided

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until creamy and well combined.
2. Add the eggs and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat again until the mixture is smooth and evenly incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, stir together the salt, baking powder, flour, and dark cocoa powder.
4. Slowly beat the dry ingredient mixture into the butter-sugar mixture until fully combined, creating a thick and chocolaty batter.
5. Add 1 cup of mini M&M’s to the batter and stir gently to distribute them evenly throughout.
6. Spoon the batter into a greased 9×13 glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top the batter with the remaining 1/2 cup of mini M&M’s, pressing them gently into the top of the batter.
8. Bake the brownies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.
9. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares.

M&M’s Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the nostalgic appeal of M&M’s candies with the timeless indulgence of homemade brownies. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, dessert, or party treat, M&M’s Brownies are sure to bring smiles to the faces of those who savor them.