Christmas Cookie Bars

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delightful treats that bring warmth and joy. One of my family’s favorites has become these Christmas Cookie Bars. Every time I bake them, the sweet aroma fills the house, instantly lifting spirits and creating a festive atmosphere. The combination of colorful M&Ms and creamy white chocolate chips not only makes these bars visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious. My kids can’t resist sneaking a piece (or two!) before they cool down. Whether for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply a cozy night in, these cookie bars have become a cherished tradition in our home.

Ingredients

To create these festive cookie bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup red and green M&Ms
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

Making these Christmas Cookie Bars is straightforward and can be a fun family activity. Follow these simple steps:

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser bars.

Fold in M&Ms and Chips

5. Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the M&Ms and the white chocolate chips, reserving the remaining candies for topping.

Bake

6. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms on top, pressing them slightly into the dough for a festive touch.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. This cooling step is crucial, as it helps the bars set and makes them easier to cut.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 24 squares
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve

These cookie bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As a Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• With Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for a cozy treat.
• At Parties: Cut into smaller squares for a festive cookie platter.
• Gift Giving: Package in decorative boxes or bags as sweet gifts for friends and neighbors.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
2. Chill the Dough: For thicker bars, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
3. Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit for additional flavor and texture.
4. Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
5. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the bars to prevent overbaking, which can dry them out.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Mint Bars: Use mint-flavored M&Ms or add peppermint extract to the batter for a minty twist.
• Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• White Chocolate Raspberry: Substitute some M&Ms with freeze-dried raspberries for a fruity flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside slices of fresh oranges or berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a richer dessert experience.
• Ice Cream Sundae Style: Top with hot fudge and ice cream for a decadent treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These cookie bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
• Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

• Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

1. How do I know when the cookie bars are done?

• The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

1. Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

• Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips.

1. What if I can’t find red and green M&Ms?

• You can use regular M&Ms or any other festive candy instead.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

1. How long do the cookie bars last?

• They will stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container.

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

• Yes, they can be made a day or two in advance.

1. What can I do with leftover M&Ms?

• Enjoy them as a snack or sprinkle them on ice cream or yogurt.

1. Is it necessary to chill the dough?

• It’s optional, but chilling can result in thicker bars.

1. Can I add frosting on top?

• Yes, a simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting would be delicious!

Conclusion

These Christmas Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they are a celebration of the holiday spirit. Their vibrant colors and rich flavors make them a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Whether you’re baking for a party, gift-giving, or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to bring joy to everyone who tastes them. So, gather your family, bake a batch, and indulge in the sweet spirit of the season!

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