Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
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The holiday season calls for sweet and festive treats, and Christmas M&M Cookie Bars are the perfect answer. These delightful bars are not only simple to make, but they are also full of flavor and color. With festive M&M’s and gooey chocolate chips, they make any gathering a little brighter. Plus, their easy-to-cut design makes them perfect for busy days when you want to bring something special to share.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Why Make Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
Christmas M&M Cookie Bars are not only delicious, but they are also versatile and fun. You can easily tweak the recipe to include your favorite mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to your taste. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet surprise for family gatherings. Additionally, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones during the busy holiday season.
How to Make Christmas M&M Cookie Bars Step by Step
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
1 cup light brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (plus more for tops if desired)
1 cup M&M’s (plus more for tops if desired)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×13-inch or 15×10-inch pan with foil, leaving an overhang; spray with non-stick spray. Cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 1 minute. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt just until a dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s, reserving about 1/4 cup for topping. Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining M&M’s and chocolate chips over the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is just lightly golden. Cool completely in the pan before lifting out with the foil and slicing.
How to Serve Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
These cookie bars are excellent served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the top before serving. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
How to Store Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
To keep your Christmas M&M Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, you can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. If you want to keep them for even longer, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Expert Tips for Cooking Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- For a deeper flavor, consider browning the butter before cooling and using.
- Don’t over-mix the dough once you add the flour to keep your bars soft and chewy.
- Use festive colored M&M’s to enhance the holiday spirit.
- Cut the bars when they are completely cool for clean edges.
Delicious Variations of Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Swap out the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips for a nutty variation.
- Try using crushed peppermint candies mixed into the bars for a minty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas M&M Cookie Bars
What can I use instead of M&M’s?
You can substitute M&M’s with chopped nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookie bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Do I need to refrigerate the cookie bars?
No, storing them at room temperature is fine, but refrigerating them can help them last longer if needed.
Conclusion
Give Christmas M&M Cookie Bars a try this season, and experience the delightful flavors and vibrant colors they bring. Easy to make and even easier to share, these cookie bars will become a beloved treat in your holiday traditions. Enjoy the festive spirit with every delicious bite!
