Every holiday season, my kitchen transforms into a wonderland filled with the scents of cinnamon, chocolate, and sugar. I remember one particular year when the first snow fell, blanketing the world outside in soft, white fluff. My husband, Jake, and our two children, Ethan and Lily, were buzzing with excitement. We had just put up our Christmas tree, and the twinkling lights against the darkened winter sky brought an extra touch of magic to our home.
We decided to spend a cozy afternoon creating delicious treats to share with friends and neighbors. As I sifted through my collection of holiday recipes, my eyes landed on my favorite Christmas Cookie Bars. They are not only easy to make but also bursting with festive fun. I knew this recipe would not only satisfy our sweet tooth but also add to the joyous atmosphere of our gathering.
In the spirit of celebration, I called over my kids, who were eagerly waiting to help. Lily, always the creative one, began suggesting ideas for decorating our cookie bars, while Ethan was fascinated by the vibrant colors of holiday M&Ms. I love these moments in the kitchen; it’s where laughter and creativity blend into something beautiful. Cooking together as a family makes this recipe so much more special. Every bite of these Christmas Cookie Bars is filled with the love we share and the memories we create.
Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Cookie Bars aren’t just about flavor; they are about tradition and family. I cherish this recipe because it brings my family together. With cookies, everyone has their favorites. But with bars, we all can go for seconds without the fuss of rolling dough or cutting individual cookies. It’s simple, easy, and perfect for sharing with friends and neighbors during the holiday season. The bright colors of the holiday M&Ms and sprinkles make the bars look as festive as they taste, bringing smiles all around.
What’s more, making these bars allows me to experiment with flavors and textures, making it a delightful project for both novice cooks and experienced bakers. Plus, the aroma that fills the house while they bake is an experience in itself—it is like a warm hug that invites everyone in. So, let me take you through how to make these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars that are sure to become a staple in your holiday festivities.
How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars
Cooking with kids requires some patience, but the joy they bring is worth every moment. Here’s how to create your own batch of delicious Christmas Cookie Bars.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup holiday M&Ms
- 1/2 cup sprinkles
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add it to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the holiday M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cookie Bars!
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars
Serving these Christmas Cookie Bars is so much fun. I love to cut them into festive shapes, often with my children’s help. We sometimes decorate the tops with whipped cream or a light drizzle of chocolate to make them even sweeter. You could even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cheerful dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.
When we have friends over, I like to present the bars on a colorful platter surrounded by fresh fruit and holiday-themed treats, which always gets everyone excited. Watching the joy on faces as they take their first bite is what makes it all worthwhile.
How to Store Christmas Cookie Bars
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, I assure you!), storing these cookie bars is simple. Just keep them covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness. For those days when you want a quick snack, just pull them out, let them warm slightly, and they will remind you of the cozy moments shared around the table.
Tips to Make Christmas Cookie Bars
- Be mindful of your mix-ins: You can customize your cookie bars by adding different types of M&Ms or sprinkles. If you cannot find holiday M&Ms, regular ones work perfectly fine, or you could add nuts for a different flavor.
- Don’t overbake: To ensure your bars remain soft and chewy, keep an eye on the baking time. Remember that they will continue to cook a little after removing them from the oven.
- Add a festive twist: If you want to include some spices, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mix can add a holiday warmth.
Variations
Every year, I love experimenting with different flavors. For a peppermint twist, you could add crushed peppermint candies on top as they cool. Another great addition is swapping out some flour for cocoa powder to create a chocolatey base. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to make the recipe your own!
FAQs
Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! They freeze wonderfully. Just cut them into bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, I prefer the flavor that unsalted butter brings to these cookie bars. If you do swap it out, be sure to choose margarine that serves as a direct substitute for butter.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure you check the nutritional facts to confirm it’s a one-to-one substitute.
As the holiday season approaches, I can’t wait for the kitchen to fill with laughter, warmth, and the delicious scents of my Christmas Cookie Bars. They truly encapsulate the spirit of the holidays in my home, bringing together family, friends, and festive moments that are worth cherishing. Each year, I rediscover the joy of baking, creating not only sweet treats but also lasting memories with my loved ones. So, gather your family and create some sweet memories this holiday season!
Christmas Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add it to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the holiday M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.