Christmas Cookie Bars

There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking during the holiday season, and Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect treat to bring festive cheer! These delicious bars are simple to make, incredibly tasty, and oh-so-customizable, allowing you to create something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a last-minute addition to your holiday platter or a fun project with the kids, these cookie bars deliver on all fronts.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 180mg

Why Make Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful addition to your holiday festivities. Not only do they capture the essence of traditional cookies in a convenient bar form, but they also provide a canvas for creativity. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit various dietary needs and preferences. With loads of chocolate chips and optional nuts, these bars are packed with flavor, while also being easy to divide and share with friends and family!

How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars Step by Step

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour,
1 cup unsalted butter, softened,
1 cup granulated sugar,
1 cup brown sugar, packed,
2 large eggs,
1 teaspoon vanilla extract,
1 teaspoon baking soda,
1/2 teaspoon salt,
1 cup chocolate chips,
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional),
Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time and then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine it with the wet ingredients.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using.
6. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before cutting into bars and decorating with sprinkles if desired.

   

How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of milk for a delightful treat. You can also serve them alongside yogurt or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced snack. For an extra touch, warm the bars slightly and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

How to Store Christmas Cookie Bars

These cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to slice them before freezing for easy access!

Expert Tips for Cooking Christmas Cookie Bars

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter; just mix until combined for a lighter bar.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add dried fruits for added flavor.
• Let the bars cool completely for clean cuts and better presentation.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a festive twist!

Delicious Variations of Christmas Cookie Bars

For a fun twist, try adding spices like ginger or nutmeg for a more wintery flavor. You could also swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate or even butterscotch chips for a change. If you’re looking for a fruity option, consider adding dried cranberries or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing surprise!

Trying your hand at Christmas Cookie Bars is a wonderful way to bring the spirit of the holidays into your home. With their rich flavor, easy preparation, and endless customization options, you’ll be sure to impress your loved ones this season. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of these festive treats!