Name: Delicious Christmas Cookie Bars for Quick Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar); 2 large Eggs (Essential for binding); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Vital for structure); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Leavening agent); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 cup M&Ms (Colorful flair); 1/4 cup Sprinkles (Optional but recommended)

Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, nothing beats the feeling of pulling freshly baked treats from the oven. These delightful Christmas Cookie Bars come together in a flash, making them a perfect solution for those busy evenings when you crave something sweet without all the fuss. Bursting with rich, buttery flavor and vibrant M&Ms, these bars are not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser for festive gatherings. Plus, they’re designed for sharing—ideal for holiday parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift. What festive twist will you add to your batch?

Why are Christmas Cookie Bars a Must-Bake?

Quick to Make: These delightful bars come together in no time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the season rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Festive Appeal: With vibrant M&Ms and sprinkles, they add a pop of color to your holiday gatherings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the mix-ins—chocolate chips or dried fruits work beautifully!
Perfect for Sharing: Their easy-to-slice format makes them the ideal treat for parties or thoughtful gifts. Check out these Turkey Sugar Cookies for another festive touch.
Chewy Perfection: Enjoy the chewy, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa after a busy day. Don’t miss the chance to whip up these bars for endless holiday joy!

Christmas Cookie Bars Ingredients

• Let’s gather your ingredients for a festive baking adventure!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a chewy texture; can partially substitute with granulated sugar if desired.
Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and ensuring moisture in your bars.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warm, sweet flavor of the cookie bars.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure needed for these delightful bars; vital for the perfect consistency.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to keep the bars light and fluffy.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavor of the bars.

For the Festive Touch

M&Ms – Provides colorful flair and a fun crunch; swap with chocolate chips or any other colorful candies to suit your taste.
Sprinkles – Adds a decorative, festive element; entirely optional but highly recommended for the holiday spirit!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, take a 9×13-inch metal pan and line it with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to ensure the Christmas Cookie Bars release effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Brown Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, cream the mixture together until it achieves a crumbly yet well-combined texture. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in the eggs, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients on medium speed until the batter is smooth and fully blended together, which should take an additional 1-2 minutes. Pay attention to the color, as it will lighten slightly during this process, signaling it’s perfectly incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking powder and salt over the batter, mixing briefly to distribute. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while stirring gently until just combined. It’s important not to over-mix at this stage; you want the Christmas Cookie Bars to remain tender and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles
Once the dough is fully combined, gently fold in the colorful M&Ms and a handful of festive sprinkles, reserving some for the top. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate these mix-ins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for a burst of flavor and color in every bite.

Step 6: Transfer to the Pan
Scoop the cookie dough into the prepared pan, using a silicone spatula to spread it evenly into all corners. The layer should be smooth and level. Gently press the mixture down to compact it slightly, which helps the bars maintain their shape while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven, baking the Christmas Cookie Bars for 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for them turning a lovely golden brown around the edges while the centers remain slightly soft—this will ensure a perfect chewy texture once cooled.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. Carefully lift the bars out using the foil overhang and transfer them to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars.

Storage Tips for Christmas Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store your Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and delicious for snacking.

Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat, these bars can be stored in the fridge for up to a week; just ensure they’re covered tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: For a warm treat, you can pop a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; enjoy the melty M&Ms!

What to Serve with Christmas Cookie Bars

Indulging in these festive treats opens up a world of delightful pairings that enhance your holiday experience.

Hot Cocoa: A classic warm drink that contrasts perfectly with the chewy texture of the bars. Top it with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Peppermint Ice Cream: Cool, creamy, and refreshing, this dessert balances the sweetness of the bars and adds a wintery flavor twist.
Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruit adds a light contrast that cuts through the richness of the cookie bars, making for a refreshing side.
Eggnog: This traditional festive drink complements the buttery flavor of the bars while bringing festive cheer to your gatherings.
Spiced Chai: The warming spices in chai elevate the flavor of your sweet treats, creating a cozy pairing ideal for chilly evenings.
Roasted Nuts: A crunchy, salty contrast to the sweetness of the bars, roasted nuts offer a satisfying bite when served alongside.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy twist that elevates the flavor profile, cranberry sauce adds a seasonal touch and delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Milk: Classic and simple, a glass of cold milk is the ultimate companion to these sweet treats, enhancing their rich buttery flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: For a fun twist, serve bars with a side of sweet cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of indulgence.

Christmas Cookie Bars Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on Christmas Cookie Bars!

Nutty Delight: Swap some flour for finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Adding nuts brings a delightful contrast to the soft, buttery bars while enriching the overall flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Substitute M&Ms with chocolate chips or a combination of dark, white, and milk chocolate.
This variation results in a rich chocolate experience, perfect for any chocolate lover to savor.
Dried Fruit Medley: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries in place of M&Ms for a tart and chewy addition.
This fruity swap creates a beautiful balance of flavors that’s both festive and delicious.
Coconut Twist: Stir in sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
The coconut adds a pleasing chewiness and pairs wonderfully with the buttery base of the bars, offering a unique spin.
Minty Fresh: Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing twist.
This variation makes your festive treats feel extra special and perfectly aligns with holiday spirits.
Festive Spice: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic kick.
The spices elevate the holiday flavor profile, making these bars even more comforting and nostalgic.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter.
These bars will still pack a punch of flavor, allowing everyone to enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences.
Flavorful Sprinkles: Experiment with different flavored sprinkles (like chocolate or mint) for a fun visual and taste twist.
They can turn your cookie bars into a festive masterpiece, making them even more appealing for holiday parties!

For more sweet ideas, try making these charming Turkey Sugar Cookies or enjoy a classic with these delicious Rhubarb Custard Bars for a delightful treat alongside your Cookie Bars!

Expert Tips for Christmas Cookie Bars

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, creating a light texture in your Christmas Cookie Bars.
Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on your bars to avoid over-baking; slightly underbaking will yield a wonderfully chewy consistency.
Storage Matters: Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Make Ahead: Prepare these bars a day in advance to let the flavors meld and really shine during your holiday gatherings.
Mix-In Variety: Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits, but be sure to keep the balance sweet for the best results!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the bars up to 3 days ahead of time; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them chewy and delicious. When you’re ready to serve, just slice and enjoy their festive flavors! This means you can enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked treats without the last-minute stress—an absolute win for your holiday celebrations!

Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Christmas Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! For this recipe, fresh ingredients are key to achieving that rich and buttery flavor. Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and check that your eggs are fresh—crack one in a bowl to ensure it smells neutral and not off. If using optional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, pick ones that are high-quality and fresh, avoiding ones with dark spots or a rancid odor.

What is the best way to store Christmas Cookie Bars?
Very simple! Store your Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep them fresh. If you have a batch leftover, you can easily refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well covered to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Bars, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Cookie Bars, first, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or microwave them for a quick warm-up!

What if my cookie bars turn out too cakey or dry?
Ah, that can happen! If your bars are too cakey, it’s likely they were overmixed during the flour incorporation stage. Aim to mix just until combined! Also, keep an eye on the baking time; they should be golden on the edges but soft in the center. If they’ve cooled too much and seem dry, try warming them slightly in the microwave—this can help bring back some moisture.

Are there any dietary concerns for Christmas Cookie Bars regarding allergies?
Definitely! These Christmas Cookie Bars contain common allergens like dairy and eggs. If you or your guests have allergies, you can substitute with dairy-free options—use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and flax eggs for the eggs. Always double-check your ingredients, especially with mix-ins, to avoid cross-contamination for anyone with nut allergies.

Can I customize the ingredients to make my own version of Christmas Cookie Bars?
Very much so! These bars are versatile; you can swap out M&Ms for chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for new flavors. Feel free to experiment with different extracts, like almond or peppermint, to add a seasonal twist. Just remember, if you change significant ingredients, you might need to adjust baking time a little, so keep an eye on them!