Experience the joy of the holiday season with these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars. Soft, chewy, and loaded with festive colors and flavors, they are the perfect treat to share with family and friends. These bars bring together the rich taste of buttery cookies, the sweetness of chocolate, and the vibrant cheer of holiday sprinkles, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Christmas Cookie Bars recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also brimming with festive spirit. The blend of M&M’s and white chocolate chips creates a sweet contrast against the rich, buttery base. Plus, the colorful holiday sprinkles give these bars a visually appealing touch that will impress everyone at your holiday gatherings. They are perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or simply as a special treat for your family during the festive season.
Introduction
The holiday season is synonymous with delicious baked goods, and what better way to celebrate than with a simple yet delectable recipe for Christmas Cookie Bars? These bars are a delightful alternative to traditional cookies, offering the same wonderful flavor but in a convenient, stable form. Perfect for those busy holiday schedules, they can be whipped up in just over half an hour and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or just craving something sweet, these cookie bars fit the bill perfectly. Let’s dive into this festive treat that combines the classic flavors of Christmas with ease and efficiency.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup red and green M&M’s
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the bars from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, and whisk until everything is fully mixed together.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few flour streaks remaining.
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins
Fold in the festive M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and holiday sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for maximum color and flavor.
Bake:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can dry out the bars.
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cookie Bars, either plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Cooking Note:
For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients to enhance the holiday spirit!
Serving Suggestions:
These cookie bars pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or a festive eggnog. Serve them on a decorative platter topped with additional sprinkles to make them even more festive.
Tips:
- For a different twist, try adding the seasonal chocolate candies that are available during the holidays, like peppermint M&M’s or white chocolate peppermint bits.
- To store, place the cooled cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week – if they last that long!
Time to Prepare and Cook:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories: 280 kcal per bar
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 170mg
Conclusion
These Christmas Cookie Bars encapsulate the essence of holiday baking. With their festive colors, mouth-watering texture, and delightful taste, they are sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday celebrations. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in yourself. So roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients, and let the holiday baking begin!
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the butter for a healthier option?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or applesauce for a lower-fat alternative, but it might change the texture slightly.
2. How should I store leftovers?
Store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
3. Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
4. What can I use instead of M&M’s?
You can substitute M&M’s with chocolate chips, nuts, or whatever festive candy you prefer.
5. How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Christmas Cookie Bars, simply use 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of regular flour.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats this holiday season!
