- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in chocolate chips, red and green M&M’s, and Christmas jimmies.
- Spread in Pan: Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared pan and press it evenly into the corners. Sprinkle additional Christmas sprinkles on top if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are golden and the center is set. Be careful not to overbake to maintain a chewy texture.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.
Serving and Storage
Serve these festive cookie bars at holiday parties, gift them in cellophane bags, or enjoy them with a warm mug of cocoa. They are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze baked bars for up to 2 months. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips
- Use room temperature egg for even mixing and a smoother texture.
- Press the dough evenly into the pan for uniform baking.
- Don’t overbake—cookies continue to firm up as they cool.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite holiday candies or chocolate chips.
- Sprinkle festive decorations on top for a visually appealing presentation.
Conclusion
Christmas Bar Cookies are a festive, chewy, and colorful treat that brings holiday cheer to any occasion. Easy to make and loaded with chocolate and candy, they are perfect for sharing with family, friends, or coworkers. Their bright appearance and delicious flavor make them a must-have for holiday baking.
FAQ
Can I use regular M&M’s?
Yes, but red and green M&M’s add a festive holiday touch.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, reduce or omit additional salt to balance flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
How do I keep the bars chewy?
Avoid overbaking and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
