Christmas Cookie Bars
Chewy, colorful, and packed with holiday cheer — the easiest way to bake cookies for a crowd.
Introduction
Cookies are a holiday staple, but sometimes you don’t have the time to scoop, roll, and bake dozens of individual treats. That’s where Christmas Cookie Bars come in. They deliver all the flavor and fun of cookies, but in a simple bar form that’s quick to prep, easy to bake, and perfect for slicing and serving.
With festive M&M’s, sprinkles, and chocolate chips, these bars are a guaranteed hit at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights at home. They’re chewy in the center, slightly crisp at the edges, and bursting with color — a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients Breakdown
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Creamy base for rich flavor.
1 cup light brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and caramel notes.
½ cup granulated sugar – Balances sweetness.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Bind and add structure.
2 tsp vanilla extract – Warm, aromatic depth.
3 cups all‑purpose flour – Foundation of the dough.
1 tsp baking soda – Helps bars rise slightly.
1 tsp salt – Balances sweetness.
1 cup Christmas M&M’s – Festive pops of color.
1 cup semi‑sweet chocolate chips – Classic cookie flavor.
⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles – Adds crunch and holiday sparkle.
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Preheat Oven: 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 pan with parchment.
Cream Butter & Sugars: Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture.
Fold in Mix‑Ins: Stir in ¾ of M&M’s, chocolate chips, and sprinkles.
Press Dough: Spread evenly in pan. Top with remaining mix‑ins.
Bake: 20–25 minutes until edges are golden.
Cool & Slice: Let cool completely before cutting into 24 bars.
Baking Science
Butter + sugar creaming traps air, giving bars a light texture.
Brown sugar adds chewiness thanks to molasses.
Eggs provide structure and moisture.
Baking soda reacts with acids in brown sugar, helping bars rise slightly.
Tips for Success
Don’t overmix once flour is added — keeps bars tender.
Line pan with parchment for easy removal.
Cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Use festive sprinkles and M&M’s for maximum holiday appeal.
Variations
White Chocolate Peppermint Bars: Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate and add crushed candy canes.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
Gluten‑Free Version: Use gluten‑free flour blend.
Mini Bars: Bake in an 8×8 pan for thicker bars.
Frosted Bars: Spread cream cheese frosting and sprinkle extra holiday toppings.
Serving Ideas
Arrange on a holiday platter with other cookies.
Serve warm with hot cocoa.
Package in festive tins for edible gifts.
Add to dessert buffets for parties.
Storage
Room Temperature: Airtight container, up to 4 days.
Freezer: Store in freezer bags up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Make‑Ahead: Bake a batch, freeze, and thaw when guests arrive.
Nutrition (per bar, approx.)
Calories: ~210
Protein: ~2g
Fat: ~10g
Carbs: ~28g
History of Cookie Bars
Cookie bars became popular in the mid‑20th century as a shortcut to traditional cookies. They’re beloved for their convenience and versatility, often appearing in potlucks and holiday spreads.
Why Cookie Bars Work So Well
Bars bake evenly, slice cleanly, and are easier to transport than individual cookies. They’re also customizable with endless mix‑ins.
Pairing Suggestions
Drink Pairing: Hot cocoa or peppermint mocha.
Wine Pairing: Sweet dessert wines like Moscato.
Tea Pairing: Spiced chai or cinnamon black tea.
FAQs
Can I use different candies? Yes, swap M&M’s for Reese’s Pieces or seasonal chocolates.
Can I make thicker bars? Use an 8×8 pan and adjust bake time.
Can I double recipe? Yes, bake in two pans or one large sheet pan.
Conclusion
These Christmas Cookie Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert: easy to make, fun to serve, and loved by all ages. With their chewy texture, colorful mix‑ins, and festive flair, they’re perfect for parties, gifts, or cozy nights by the fire.