Description

As the holiday season approaches, countless families gather in their kitchens, enveloped in the warm glow of festive lights while they bake some of the most cherished treats of the year. Among these is the sumptuous and delightful Christmas Cookie Bars. These bars encapsulate the spirit of the season with every delicious bite, combining the nostalgic flavors of brown sugar, vanilla, and festive decorations.

Imagine biting into a luscious, chewy cookie bar studded with vibrant red and green M&Ms, each piece melting in your mouth and bringing back joyful memories of holiday gatherings and laughter. This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating moments that you’ll cherish for years. Whether you’re bringing a batch to a holiday party or surprising your family with a sweet treat after dinner, these cookie bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? They are incredibly easy to make! With minimal effort and time required, you can whip up a tray of these festive delights. Plus, they are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, allowing everyone to partake in the magic of holiday baking. Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Holiday Cookie Bars!

Ingredients

• For this delightful recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect holiday treat. Here's a clear list to guide you:
• - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• - 2 large eggs
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• - 2 cups all-purpose flour
• - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1 cup red and green M&Ms
• - 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles
• *Substitutions and Variations*:
• - If you're out of unsalted butter, feel free to use salted butter but omit the additional salt in the recipe.
• - You can use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• - For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• - If M&Ms aren't your thing, consider swapping them for chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor profile.

Preparation Method

Creating these Christmas Cookie Bars is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the aroma of sweet treats. This method is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, generously line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it ensures your cookie bars release easily after baking and allows for easy cleanup.

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted unsalted butter, allowing its warmth to bring together the sugars for a rich, caramelized flavor. Add the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, mix these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This is where the magic begins, as the sugars dissolve into the buttery goodness, creating a syrupy base that enhances the bars' chewiness.

Next, crack in the two large eggs, ensuring they are at room temperature for optimal blending. Add the vanilla extract to the mix. Continue to stir until everything is well combined and the mixture has a slightly frothy appearance, which should take just a minute or two.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture ensures that your cookie bars will rise properly and have the right texture. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring tenderly until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; small flecks of flour are totally acceptable and will blend in during baking.

It’s time for the best part—gently fold in the vibrant red and green M&Ms along with the holiday sprinkles. Reserve a handful of both for topping your bars later, adding a festive touch. As you fold, be mindful to keep the mixture light to maintain the fluffiness of the batter. The sight of those colorful candies is sure to bring a smile to your face!

Once everything is harmoniously blended, scoop the thick dough into your prepared baking pan. With a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread it evenly to fill the pan. As you spread, you can already imagine those enticing cookie bars—golden, chewy, and robust. Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms and holiday sprinkles generously on top, ensuring every square will be festive and fun when baked.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. You’ll know they are ready when the edges turn a lovely golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Resist the temptation to pull them out too soon—the bars continue to firm up as they cool, ultimately achieving that delightful chewy texture.

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan to help the bars set properly. After cooling, grab the parchment paper and lift the entire batch out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice them into squares of your preferred size.

Tips and Conclusion

For a decadent twist, consider serving these cookie bars warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Alternatively, for a fun presentation at holiday gatherings, cut them into festive shapes using holiday-themed cookie cutters! Just be sure to let them cool a bit before cutting to maintain their shape.

To elevate your baking, try incorporating some crushed peppermint candies or a hint of peppermint extract for a minty flair, perfect for holiday festivities. These cookie bars can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer-lasting enjoyment. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Baking these Christmas Cookie Bars is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating cherished memories with friends and family, celebrating the season of joy and togetherness. The simple ingredients come together to form a sweet masterpiece that is both delicious and visually appealing.

The experience of preparing these bars can ignite the festive spirit within and remind us of the importance of sharing and giving during this magical time of year. After indulging in these delightful treats, why not explore more delightful recipes? Consider trying your hand at classic gingerbread cookies or a cozy peppermint bark for a complete holiday dessert spread.

Remember, every batch of cookie bars made carries the sweet aroma of nostalgia and flavor to be shared with loved ones. Enjoy these bars, share them with friends, and don’t forget to browse through our other delicious recipes for more holiday inspiration. Happy baking!