ChristmasClassic Cakes

Christmas Cookie Bars

Updated on 5 min read

There’s something inherently magical about Christmas cookie bars. The combination of festive flavors, the comforting warmth of freshly baked treats, and the joy of sharing them with loved ones makes them a holiday staple. These Christmas Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Let’s dive into the world of Christmas Cookie Bars with a comprehensive guide that covers everything from ingredients and preparation to creative variations and storage tips.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup red and green M&M’s (or any festive colored M&M’s)

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
  • Festive sprinkles

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Creaming the butter and sugars helps to incorporate air, which will give your bars a lighter texture.

3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is well combined before moving on to the next step.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any clumps of baking soda or salt in your cookie bars.

5. Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookie bars.

6. Fold in the Chocolate Chips and M&M’s

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s. The key here is to be gentle to avoid overworking the batter and crushing the M&M’s.

7. Spread the Batter

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. You may need to use a spatula to ensure the batter reaches all corners of the dish.

8. Bake the Cookie Bars

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookie bars to avoid overbaking.

9. Cool and Cut

Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles.

10. Add the Topping (Optional)

If desired, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the bars and add festive sprinkles. Allow the white chocolate to set before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

  • Serve Christmas Cookie Bars at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
  • Pair them with a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or a glass of milk for a cozy holiday treat.

Storage

  • Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To extend their shelf life, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Creative Variations

1. Peppermint Cookie Bars

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter.
  • Replace the M&M’s with crushed candy canes or peppermint chips.

2. Gingerbread Cookie Bars

  • Add 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
  • Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.

3. Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars

  • Add the zest of one orange and 1/2 cup dried cranberries to the batter.
  • Use white chocolate chips and drizzle with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.

4. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

  • Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with peanut butter chips.
  • Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top before adding the white chocolate drizzle.

5. Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

  • Replace the chocolate chips and M&M’s with cinnamon chips.
  • Sprinkle the top with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the amount of added salt to 1/2 teaspoon to avoid making the bars too salty.

Q: What if I don’t have light brown sugar?

A: You can use dark brown sugar instead, or make your own light brown sugar by mixing 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie bars?

A: Absolutely! Freeze the bars in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Why did my cookie bars come out dry?

A: Overbaking can cause dryness. Ensure you bake them just until the edges are golden and the center is set. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.

Q: Can I substitute the chocolate chips with something else?

A: Yes, you can substitute the chocolate chips with nuts, dried fruits, or other flavored chips like caramel or toffee bits.

Conclusion

Christmas Cookie Bars are not just a festive treat; they are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer. With their rich, gooey centers and crisp edges, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the creative variations, you’ll find that these bars are as versatile as they are delicious. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, love, and lots of sweet treats!