6 M&M’s Flavors That Miss the Mark And 9 That Are Colorful, Crunchy Perfection

M&M’s are one of the most iconic candies around—and they’ve come a long way from the classic milk chocolate variety. Over the years, Mars has rolled out dozens of flavors, from nutty to fruity to straight-up bizarre. Some are instant favorites. Others? Not so much. We tasted our way through the candy rainbow to find the M&M’s that are worth grabbing by the handful—and the ones better left on the shelf.

1. Coffee Nut

Coffee Nut M&M’s sounds like a coffee lover’s dream, but the reality is far less appealing. The flavor is reminiscent of an artificial mocha, overshadowing the expected coffee richness. This artificial taste clashes with the peanut within, creating a flavor profile that feels disjointed rather than harmonious.

The initial promise of this flavor quickly fades, leaving a lingering aftertaste that’s more disappointing than delightful. It’s a flavor that, instead of complementing the chocolate and peanut, feels like an afterthought.

For those seeking a true coffee kick, this M&M’s variation might not hit the mark.

2. White Chocolate Peppermint

White Chocolate Peppermint M&M’s aim to capture the holiday spirit, but unfortunately, they miss the festive mark. Overly sweet, these candies offer a sharp, toothpaste-like aftertaste that is hard to shake off.

The combination screams “holiday limited edition,” but not in a way that leaves you longing for more. The peppermint flavor overpowers, leaving little room for the subtleties of white chocolate to shine through.

While they look festive, the actual taste experience doesn’t live up to the visual appeal, making them more of a seasonal novelty than a cherished favorite.

3. English Toffee Peanut

English Toffee Peanut M&M’s promise a rich toffee flavor, but their execution falls flat. The taste is overwhelmingly sweet and surprisingly dry, lacking the creamy richness one might expect from toffee.

This dryness, combined with the intensity of sweetness, creates a confusing and unsatisfying eating experience. Rather than complementing the peanut, the toffee becomes an overbearing presence.

For some, the allure of toffee might be tempting, but for others, this flavor fails to meet expectations, resulting in a candy that confounds more than it delights.

4. Strawberry Shake

Strawberry Shake M&M’s sound like a delightful dessert in candy form, but the flavor is more reminiscent of strawberry lip gloss than a creamy treat. The initial taste is overpoweringly perfumed, lacking the natural fruitiness one might hope for.

This artificial quality breaks the illusion of a real strawberry shake, instead transporting you back to childhood cosmetics rather than culinary delight. The sweetness is cloying, and the promised freshness is nowhere to be found.

For those craving a fruity escape, these M&M’s might disappoint, leaving a desire for something more authentic.

5. Pumpkin Spice

Pumpkin Spice M&M’s try to capture the seasonal craze, but the effort seems misplaced. Instead of a balanced blend, these candies overpower with spice, leaving the chocolate element struggling to be noticed.

The flavor is dominated by a strong, almost aggressive spice profile that lacks the subtlety one might expect from a pumpkin spice treat. There’s a disconnect between the chocolate and spice, resulting in a less-than-harmonious taste.

For those enchanted by pumpkin spice, this M&M’s version may not deliver the seasonal warmth and balance typically sought after.

6. Fudge Brownie

Fudge Brownie M&M’s offer an enticing promise, but the reality lies somewhere less exciting. The texture is unexpectedly chewy, which might surprise regular M&M’s fans who crave crunch.

The flavor, advertised as rich brownie, is rather mild and lacks the deep chocolate intensity typically associated with brownies. This muted taste doesn’t capture the decadence one seeks in a fudge brownie.

For chocolate lovers, this might not fulfill the craving for indulgence, leaving more to be desired from this flavor that doesn’t quite deliver on its name.

7. Peanut

Peanut M&M’s are a timeless favorite that have stood the test of time. With a satisfying crunch, these candies perfectly balance nutty flavor with creamy milk chocolate.

The combination is simple yet effective, creating a taste that’s both nostalgic and enduring. For many, these M&M’s are the quintessential version, offering a delightful snack that’s hard to resist.

Whether enjoyed by the handful or savored slowly, Peanut M&M’s deliver a reliable and enjoyable experience, making them a staple in the M&M’s lineup that continues to please.

8. Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter M&M’s are a dreamy treat for those who can’t resist the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. The creamy filling wrapped in a hard candy shell mimics the experience of enjoying a mini Reese’s with the added crunch typical of M&M’s.

This flavor offers a comforting balance, enhancing the classic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter with its unique texture. It’s both indulgent and satisfying, hitting all the right notes for a perfect sweet snack.

For peanut butter aficionados, these M&M’s are a delicious must-try that never disappoints.

9. Crispy

Crispy M&M’s bring a delightful twist to the traditional format with their light and airy texture. The puffed rice core offers a unique crunch that is both addictive and satisfying.

This airy lightness makes them easy to enjoy in abundance, offering a playful eating experience that many find irresistible. The balance of crunch with the chocolate shell creates a dynamic treat that’s hard to put down.

For those looking for something different yet familiar, Crispy M&M’s provide a pleasing variation that stands out in the M&M’s family.

10. Pretzel

Pretzel M&M’s take the sweet and salty trend to new heights. The pretzel core adds a delightful crunch, perfectly marrying with the sweet chocolate shell.

This harmonious blend of flavors creates a balanced, satisfying snack experience that appeals to both sweet and savory cravings. The pretzel adds a unique twist, ensuring that each bite offers a contrast of textures.

For those who love a bit of salt with their sweet, Pretzel M&M’s are a perfect choice that brings a little something extra to the table.

11. Dark Chocolate

Dark Chocolate M&M’s offer an elevated experience for those who enjoy a deeper chocolate flavor. This version provides a richer, more intense taste compared to the classic milk chocolate, appealing to more mature palates.

The slight bitterness of the dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweet candy shell, creating a complex flavor profile that is both satisfying and indulgent. It’s a grown-up twist on the beloved candy.

For chocolate connoisseurs, Dark Chocolate M&M’s are a luxurious treat that enriches the M&M’s experience.

12. Caramel

Caramel M&M’s bring a chewy, satisfying twist to the classic candy. Each piece contains a soft caramel center enveloped in milk chocolate and a candy shell, making it akin to a bite-sized candy bar.

The rich caramel flavor combined with the chocolate creates a delightful indulgence that’s hard to resist. The texture contrast adds to the overall experience, offering a satisfying chew with each bite.

For caramel lovers, this M&M’s variant offers a sweet escape that feels both familiar and exciting, delivering satisfaction in every handful.

13. Mint Dark Chocolate

Mint Dark Chocolate M&M’s blend refreshing mint with sophisticated dark chocolate, making for a uniquely indulgent treat. It’s like savoring a scoop of mint chocolate ice cream wrapped in a candy shell.

The mint’s coolness elevates the chocolate’s richness, creating a balance that refreshes as it delights. This combination is perfect for those who appreciate the classic pairing of mint and chocolate.

For a refreshing twist on the traditional, Mint Dark Chocolate M&M’s provide a delightful change that’s both invigorating and delicious.

14. Almond

Almond M&M’s offer a larger nutty experience that contrasts nicely with the sweet chocolate. The almond brings a mellow, slightly nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.

This larger variant provides a satisfying crunch, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy a heartier snack. The almond’s subtle flavor complements the chocolate without overpowering it, creating a harmonious balance.

For nut enthusiasts, Almond M&M’s add a satisfying twist to the classic candy, offering a more robust and enjoyable experience.

15. Minis

Minis M&M’s deliver the same great taste as the originals, but in a smaller, more snackable form. Something about their tiny size makes them irresistibly easy to eat by the handful.

These miniature versions provide a playful eating experience, perfect for those who enjoy a lighter bite. Despite their size, the flavor remains full and satisfying, offering the classic M&M’s taste in a new way.

For fans of the original, Minis M&M’s add a bit of whimsy and fun to snacking, making them a delightful choice for all ages.