Description
These delightful Almond M&M Easter Nests feature a creamy coconut and almond-flavored cookie base, topped with colorful Almond M&Ms, perfect for celebrating Easter or any spring occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp (15ml) baking powder
- 1/4 tsp (1ml) salt
- 3/4 cup (180g) butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 tsp (3ml) almond extract
- 1 cup (75g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 1/2 cups (400g) Almond M&Ms
- Food coloring (optional, for dyeing coconut)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, use a stand or handheld mixer to cream the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and almond extract to the butter mixture, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indent in the center of each cookie to form a nest shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a few Almond M&Ms into the center of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, dye the remaining coconut with food coloring and sprinkle over the cookies to resemble grass in the nests.
Notes
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If Almond M&Ms are unavailable, regular M&Ms or another nutty candy can be used as a substitute. For a festive touch, dye the coconut with food coloring to resemble grass in the nests.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes