I can vividly recall the excitement and joy that filled my home last holiday season as the aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air. It’s a time of year when family and friends gather, and for me, nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like whipping up a batch of delicious treats to share with loved ones. One of my favorite easy recipes that’s always a hit is these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars. I first made these for a family holiday get-together, and to my surprise, they were such a success that everyone was clamoring for the recipe!
One thing I love about these cookie bars is their versatility. They’re perfect for those holiday potlucks, gift boxes, or as a tasty treat at home when you’ve got a cozy movie night planned. Prep takes only about 15 minutes, which means you can have them ready in time for impromptu guests or when the little ones have a sweet craving.
What’s more, these bars are an absolute joy to make with kids. My own children adore helping me measure out ingredients and, of course, sprinkling on the M&Ms. It’s become a cherished tradition in our household—an opportunity to press pause on the hustle and bustle and just enjoy some family bonding over a shared love for baking.
I encourage you to give this recipe a go, even if you’re new to baking. Its simplicity and delicious end result are bound to make it a favorite in your home. And who knows—you may start a new family tradition of your own! Now, let’s dive into how you can make these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars…
How to Make The Best Christmas Cookie Bars
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Ingredients:
- 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup Christmas M&Ms (or your favorite colors)
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies recommended)
Directions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13” metal baking dish with foil and give it a generous spray of cooking oil.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix with an electric mixer until the blend becomes a coarse, crumbly texture. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is completely smooth.
- Gently blend in the salt and baking powder, then add the flour gradually. Once combined, fold in the vibrant M&Ms and sprinkles to incorporate those festive colors.
- Transfer the dough to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. You might find the batter a tad sticky, so spraying your hands can aid in smoothing it out. Top it off with any remaining M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes. Keep a watchful eye as you want them to develop a beautiful golden-brown color. It’s best to remove them just before they seem fully done, as they’ll firm up while cooling.
- Allow the bars to cool before slicing them into even portions. These can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days or frozen for future enjoyment up to a month later!
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you find yourself out of all-purpose flour, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a slightly different flavor profile. Can’t find Christmas M&Ms? Any colorful chocolate candies will do the trick. For vegan-friendly bars, replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and the eggs with an egg substitute.
Serving Suggestions:
These Christmas Cookie Bars are delightful served with a hot cup of cocoa or festive eggnog. To elevate the holiday vibe, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top. They also pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet, colorful centerpiece at your next holiday party.
Seasonal Variations:
Though perfect for Christmas, you can adapt these bars for any occasion by changing the M&Ms and sprinkles to match different seasonal hues. Opt for pastel shades in spring, bright oranges and browns in fall, or red-white-blue combos for a patriotic flair.
Cooking Tips:
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. If the edges of the bars are browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil. Remember, slightly underbaking the bars will result in a softer, gooier texture that many find more appealing.
Storing Suggestion:
Store the Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be left at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ:
How can I add more flavor to the Christmas Cookie Bars?
You can elevate the flavor by adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness. Additionally, a pinch of espresso powder can bring out the chocolate flavors and add depth to the bars.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. The texture may differ slightly, with margarine often resulting in a softer outcome. Choose a high-quality margarine to ensure the best possible flavor and texture in your finished bars.
Are there any gluten-free options for these bars?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of regular flour. Gluten-free oatmeal as a mix-in can provide additional texture and flavor.
How can I make these cookie bars vegan?
To make them vegan-friendly, replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute, typically one tablespoon of seeds mixed with three tablespoons of water per egg. Use a vegan butter substitute in place of regular butter for a completely plant-based treat.
How do I prevent the bars from becoming too dry?
Ensure you don’t overbake them. Removing them just shy of done will allow them to finish cooking as they cool, maintaining a soft and moist interior. Also, use fresh brown sugar, as old sugar can make baked goods dry and crumbly.
Can I add nuts to the Christmas Cookie Bars?
Certainly! Adding a half-cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can impart a delightful crunch to these bars. Ensure any added nuts are thoroughly mixed into the dough to ensure even distribution, providing surprise flavors and textures in each bite.
The Best Christmas Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup Christmas M&Ms or your favorite colors
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies recommended)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9x13” metal baking pan lined with foil and coated with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until the mixture is crumbly. Then incorporate the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Next, add the salt and baking powder, then mix in the flour. Carefully fold in the M&Ms and sprinkles, ensuring an even distribution.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using cooking spray on your hands to help spread it evenly. Add any leftover M&Ms and sprinkles on top.
- Bake in the oven for 22 to 25 minutes, until they are a lovely golden brown, being sure to take them out slightly underbaked.
- Allow the bars to cool before slicing. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze them for a month for later enjoyment.
