Almond M&M Easter Nest Cookies with Coconut
Soft, buttery cookies rolled in colorful coconut and topped with pastel M&Ms create perfect Easter treats that look like festive bird nests. The cream cheese adds tenderness while almond extract provides a subtle nutty flavor that complements the candy. These cheerful cookies are ideal for Easter gatherings, spring celebrations, or any time you want to bring joy to the table. The tinted coconut mixture gives them a playful appearance that delights both children and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl and set aside
- 2
Cream butter and cream cheese with mixer, add sugar and almond extract, beating until fluffy
- 3
Gradually beat in flour mixture and 1 cup of coconut
- 4
Cover dough and refrigerate for 45 minutes until firm enough to handle
- 5
Tint half cup coconut with red food coloring in covered container by shaking, repeat with another half cup using yellow coloring, then toss both with remaining white coconut
- 6
Roll large tablespoonfuls of dough into balls and roll each in coconut mixture until lightly coated
- 7
Place balls on greased cookie sheets and press 2-3 M&Ms into each cookie
- 8
Bake for 12 minutes at 350F
- 9
Remove from oven and cool on wire rack, then refrigerate in sealed container until ready to serve
Tips
Chill dough adequately to prevent spreading during baking and make rolling easier
Shake coconut with food coloring in a covered container to achieve even color distribution
Press M&Ms gently into dough to ensure they stay attached during baking
Good to Know
refrigerate in sealed container for up to 1 week
can be made 2 days ahead, store covered in refrigerator
serve at room temperature or slightly chilled
Common Mistakes
chill dough long enough to avoid spreading during baking
coat coconut evenly to avoid patchy coloring
press M&Ms gently to avoid cracking cookies
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular M&Ms instead of Almond M&Ms?
Yes, regular M&Ms work perfectly fine and will taste just as good, though you'll miss the subtle almond flavor from the candy.
What if I don't have food coloring?
You can skip the coloring and use plain white coconut, or substitute with naturally colored coconut flakes if available at your store.
How long do these cookies keep?
These cookies stay fresh for up to one week when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.