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Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe – Easy Festive Treat with Chocolate and Candy

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These Christmas Cookie Bars are a quick, festive treat loaded with chocolate chips and colorful candies. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or cozy nights in, they come together easily and deliver chewy, gooey comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup holiday candy-coated chocolates (such as M&Ms)
  • 1/2 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
  • Extra candies or sprinkles for topping
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips, candy-coated chocolates, white chocolate, and crushed peppermint (if using). Reserve a handful of candies for topping.
  7. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula or clean hands.
  8. Sprinkle reserved candies and extra sprinkles on top. Press lightly so they stick.
  9. Bake for 22-28 minutes, until edges are set and the center is golden but slightly gooey. Do not overbake.
  10. Let bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting out with parchment.
  11. Cut into squares or rectangles. Wipe your knife between cuts for cleaner slices.

Notes

For gluten-free bars, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Use dairy-free butter for lactose-free bars, and flax eggs for egg allergies. Do not overbake—bars firm up as they cool. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Press extra candies on top after baking for a festive look.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookie bars, holiday dessert, chocolate bars, festive treats, easy cookie bars, M&M cookie bars, Christmas baking, potluck dessert, chewy cookie bars, kid-friendly cookies

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/christmas-cookie-bars-recipe-easy-festive-treat-with-chocolate-and-candy/