CHRISTMAS M&M COOKIE BARS
There’s something magical about the holiday season that makes baking feel extra special. The warmth of the oven, the delightful aroma filling the house, and the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones. These Christmas M&M Cookie Bars capture that spirit perfectly. With their gooey texture and the festive pop of M&M’s and chocolate chips, they’re an irresistible addition to any holiday gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookie bars are incredibly easy to make, yet they deliver on both flavor and presentation. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire. The combination of M&M’s and chocolate chips creates a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13″ or 15×10″ baking pan
- Aluminum foil
- Non-stick spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping if desired)
- 1 cup M&M’s (plus more for topping if desired)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9×13″ pan with foil for thick bars or a 15×10″ pan for thinner bars. Leave an overhang for easy removal and spray with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars for 1 minute. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s, reserving about 1/4 cup for topping.
- Scoop the cookie dough into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the reserved M&M’s and chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is just barely golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely before removing from the pan and slicing.
- Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. Don’t overmix the dough once you’ve added the dry ingredients to avoid tough cookie bars. Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure they stay soft and gooey.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a festive twist, try using holiday-themed M&M’s. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these cookie bars is packed with the indulgence of chocolate and a festive crunch of M&M’s, making it a delightful treat during the holidays. Please enjoy responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I freeze these cookie bars? Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? While you can use margarine, butter will give the bars a richer taste and better texture.
- What if I don’t have a mixer? You can mix by hand, but it will take a bit more effort to cream the butter and sugars.
Conclusion
These Christmas M&M Cookie Bars are a must-try for any holiday baking list. Their gooey texture and festive appearance make them a hit at any gathering. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your baking experiences and any variations you try in the comments below!