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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix melted unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy.

3. Add two large eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined and slightly frothy.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

6. Fold in red and green M&Ms and holiday sprinkles, reserving some for topping.

7. Scoop the dough into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

8. Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms and holiday sprinkles on top.

9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

10. Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then lift out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.

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!