Christmas Cookie Bars

What is Christmas Cookie Bars?

Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats. These easy-to-make bars combine the festive flavors of Christmas with the comforting texture of cookie dough, creating a delicious treat that is perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Loaded with chocolate chips, colorful holiday M&Ms, and sprinkles, they are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, packing goodies for friends, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, Christmas Cookie Bars are sure to please.

Ingredients & Measurements for Christmas Cookie Bars

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 extra large egg, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
– 1/2 cup holiday M&Ms, plus extra for topping
– 2 tablespoons holiday sprinkles, plus extra for topping

How Long Does It Take to Make Christmas Cookie Bars?

The preparation time for these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars is around 15 minutes. Once you have everything mixed and in the oven, they will take about 30 to 35 minutes to bake. After baking, it’s best to let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. In total, you can expect to have these festive bars ready in about an hour, making them a great option for those looking for a quick and easy homemade Christmas treat. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect addition to your festive traditions.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that it hangs over the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Spices

In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 3/4 cup of packed dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack 1 extra large egg (at room temperature) into the bowl, and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until the egg and vanilla are fully blended into the sugar mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gently add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the bowl. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix, to ensure the bars remain soft and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Carefully fold in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of holiday M&Ms, and 2 tablespoons of holiday sprinkles, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Top with additional chocolate chips, M&Ms, and sprinkles for an extra festive touch.

Step 7: Bake the Cookie Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The bars should be puffed and lightly golden on top when done.

Step 8: Cool and Cut the Bars

Once the bars are baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out, and cut them into squares for serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookie Bars

To ensure your Christmas cookie bars are easy to make and turn out perfectly every time, use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Check them for doneness at the lower end of the baking time to prevent overbaking. Enjoy this quick recipe as a delightful treat during the holiday season. The best homemade Christmas cookie bars will be a hit at any gathering!

Best Cooking Techniques for Christmas Cookie Bars

Prepping the Baking Pan

Lining your baking pan with parchment paper is essential for easy removal of the cookie bars. This technique prevents sticking and allows you to lift the entire batch out of the pan once cooled for perfectly even squares.

Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Using precise measurements for the ingredients ensures that your cookie bars have the right texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients when possible, and be sure to pack the brown sugar tightly for optimal sweetness.

Room Temperature Ingredients

Bringing the egg to room temperature helps it incorporate better into the batter, promoting a smoother and more homogenous mixture. This is especially important in achieving the perfect texture in your cookie bars.

Combining Ingredients

When mixing the butter and sugars, take your time to cream them properly. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making the final product light and chewy. Avoid overmixing once you add the flour, as this can result in denser bars.

Cooling Before Cutting

Allow your cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This not only helps them set properly but also reduces the risk of crumbling when you slice into them.

FAQs About Christmas Cookie Bars

How long should I cook Christmas Cookie Bars?

You should bake Christmas cookie bars for 30 to 35 minutes at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C), or until they are puffed and lightly golden on top.

Can I make Christmas Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these cookie bars ahead of time. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week. You can also freeze the baked bars for up to three months.

What can I substitute for dark brown sugar?

If you don’t have dark brown sugar, you can substitute it with a mixture of granulated sugar and a bit of molasses. Use 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of molasses to approximate dark brown sugar.

Can I add different mix-ins to the cookie bars?

Absolutely! You can customize these bars with different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits based on your preference or availability.

Should the cookie bars be soft or firm after baking?

The cookie bars should be slightly soft in the center but will firm up as they cool. If they appear too raw in the middle after baking, give them a few more minutes in the oven.

Final Thoughts on Christmas Cookie Bars

These Christmas Cookie Bars are an irresistible addition to your holiday dessert spread. With their rich, buttery flavor, melty chocolate chips, and festive M&Ms, they capture the spirit of the season in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these bars are sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for a delightful treat throughout the festive season!

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