Patriotic Flag Cookies: A Fun and Festive Treat for the 4th of July
Make easy Patriotic Flag Cookies with red, white & blue M&M’s! Just two ingredients for this festive treat—perfect for 4th of July parties, Memorial Day BBQs.
Looking for an easy, eye-catching dessert for your next patriotic party?
These Patriotic Flag Cookies are just what you need. They’re sweet, colorful, and so simple to make. With sugar cookie dough and red, white, and blue M&M’s, you can whip up a tray of these in no time.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, attending a potluck, or simply celebrating at home, these cookies bring a festive touch to any occasion. Let’s jump into everything you need to know about this fun treat!
What Are Patriotic Flag Cookies?
Patriotic Flag Cookies are a creative twist on classic sugar cookies. 🍪🇺🇸
After baking a batch of simple round cookies, you decorate them with red, white, and blue M&M’s to form the American flag. The best part? You place the candies on while the cookies are still warm, so they melt slightly and stay in place.
These cookies are perfect for:
- Fourth of July
- Memorial Day
- Veterans Day
- Labor Day
- Any red, white, and blue celebration
They’re a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re so easy, even beginners can make them.
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Ingredients for Patriotic Flag Cookies 🎉
You only need two simple ingredients to make these cookies:
- 1 roll (or batch) of sugar cookie dough
- You can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch.
- Red, white, and blue M&M’s
- These are usually labeled as patriotic or Fourth of July M&M’s in stores.
That’s it! 🎯
These cookies don’t require any special tools, cookie cutters, or fancy skills. Just a baking sheet and your hands.
How to Make Patriotic Flag Cookies 🇺🇸
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your cookies turn out just right:
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1. Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let it heat while you prepare the cookies.
2. Slice the cookie dough
If you’re using store-bought dough, slice it into ½-inch rounds. If using homemade dough, roll into balls and flatten slightly.
3. Bake the cookies
Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each one.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
4. Remove and cool slightly
Take the cookies out of the oven. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet. Move to cooling rack to decorate
5. Decorate with M&M’s
While the cookies are still warm, gently press red, white, and blue M&M’s on top in the shape of a flag. The warmth helps the candies stick as they cool.
Tip: Start with a blue square in the top left, then add alternating red and white lines.
6. Cool completely
Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool. The M&M’s will set as the cookies firm up.
Where to Take Patriotic Flag Cookies
These cookies are perfect for all sorts of patriotic events. Here are some places where they really shine:
- Fourth of July parties – Bring a batch to a neighborhood fireworks celebration.
- BBQs and cookouts – These cookies travel well and don’t need refrigeration.
- School or church events – Share a festive tray at community gatherings.
- Picnics in the park – Easy to pack and share on the go.
- Veteran appreciation events – Show your support with a sweet red, white, and blue treat.
They’re also a great baking project for kids on holiday weekends!
Variations for Patriotic Flag Cookies ⭐
Want to switch things up? Try these fun twists:
1. Use different shapes
Instead of circles, use star-shaped cookie cutters for an extra patriotic look.
2. Make cookie bars
Press dough into a rectangle pan and bake as a single sheet. Once baked, decorate the entire top with an M&M flag, then slice into squares.
3. Try different candies
No M&M’s? Use red, white, and blue sprinkles or jelly beans for a unique look.
4. Add icing
Pipe a thin line of white icing for the stripes or to hold candies in place.
5. Use colored sugar cookie dough
Dye parts of the dough red, white, or blue before baking for colorful cookies without decorations.
Each version adds something different and keeps the recipe exciting.
Can These Cookies Be Made Ahead or Stored?
Yes, absolutely! These cookies are very easy to make ahead and store.
To make ahead:
- Prepare the cookies and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days before your event.
- If you’re using homemade dough, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Slice and bake when ready.
To store:
- Keep cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Avoid stacking decorated cookies directly. Use wax paper between layers to protect the M&M’s.
These cookies also freeze well. Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
Common Questions About Patriotic Flag Cookies ❓
What kind of sugar cookie dough should I use?
You can use any kind—store-bought, homemade, or even gluten-free! Pillsbury and other brands make great ready-to-bake options.
Do the M&M’s melt in the oven?
No, because you add them after baking, the M&M’s stay intact and don’t melt into the cookie.
Can I use other candy besides M&M’s?
Yes! Try using Skittles, jelly beans, or colored chocolate chips. Just make sure to press them in while the cookies are warm.
Can kids help make these cookies?
Definitely! Kids love placing the M&M’s into the flag pattern. It’s a fun and safe way to involve them in the kitchen.
Are these cookies good for gifting?
Yes, they make a thoughtful treat in cookie boxes or wrapped in clear bags with ribbon.
Can I use premade cookies?
You can, but adding M&M’s works best on warm, freshly baked cookies. Store-bought ones may not hold the candies as well. I would use icing to hold the candies in place. Frost and add the M&M’s in the same way as the warm cookies.
Patriotic Flag Cookies
Ingredients
- Sugar Cookie Dough store bought or homemade
- Patriotic M&Ms
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
- Slice cookies and bake for 10-12 minutes or until you can place a took pick into the center and the cookie comes out dry.
- Remove and transfer to a cooling rack.
- Create a flag using the m&m while the cookies are still warm. If you slightly press the m&m into the cookies, when the cookies cool, the m&m will stick into place.
Notes
Conclusion: Make Your Celebration Sweet with Patriotic Flag Cookies 🎆
Patriotic Flag Cookies are the perfect blend of easy, festive, and fun. With just two ingredients and a little creativity, you can create a tray of cookies that steal the show at any red, white, and blue celebration.
They’re great for gatherings, perfect for kids, and so fun to decorate. Even better, they’re easy to store and make ahead.
So next time you’re planning a patriotic party, skip the store-bought desserts. Make these Patriotic Flag Cookies instead!
🎇 Give them a try today and share the joy with friends and family. 🎇
📌 Don’t forget to pin this recipe or share it on Facebook for others to enjoy!
More patriotic recipes:
- Red, White, and Blue Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Patriotic S’mores Cookies
- Mixed Berry Tiramisu
- Mixed Berry Cheesecakes
- Red, White, and Blue Trifles
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Hi there!
I’m Emily, a mom and wife with a passion for crafting, celebrating holidays, and creating memorable moments. From Idaho to the world, The Benson Street is a treasure trove of easy, fun DIY projects, delightful printables, and delicious recipes. With over a decade of experience in blogging and a love for all things seasonal, I’m here to share my tips, ideas, and occasional mishaps. Join me in adding a dash of joy and creativity to every day! Read more…
