Introduction
There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house during the holidays, but who has time to scoop dozens of individual cookies? Enter the Delicious Christmas M&M Cookie Bars! This recipe transforms the classic chocolate chip cookie dough into a festive, easy-to-manage bar format, loaded with red and green M&M candies. Originating from the tradition of quick-mix holiday baking, these bars are special because they require minimal effort but deliver maximum festive cheer and a perfectly chewy texture. They are ideal for potlucks, cookie exchanges, or a simple cozy evening treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225 g) Unsalted Butter, softened
- ¾ cup (165 g) Packed Light Brown Sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) Granulated Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 ¼ cups (280 g) All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup (180 g) Christmas-colored M&M Candies, plus ¼ cup for topping
- Optional: ½ cup (85 g) Chocolate Chips
Step-by-step Preparation
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over slightly (this creates a sling for easy removal later). Lightly grease the parchment paper.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Tip: Ensure the butter is truly soft for the best incorporation.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Fold in Candies: Gently fold in 1 cup of the M&M candies (and chocolate chips, if using) using a spatula. Press the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch pan. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of M&M candies over the top of the dough.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should look slightly soft. Tip: Do not overbake! The bars will continue to set as they cool, ensuring a moist, chewy center. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out the parchment sling and cutting into squares.
Nutritional Information
These cookie bars are a delicious holiday indulgence. Each bar (based on 18 servings) contains approximately 250–300 calories, providing quick energy from carbohydrates and sugars. While they are a treat, they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced holiday diet.
Storage
Store leftover Christmas M&M Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need to store them longer, they can be frozen. Once fully cooled and cut, place the bars in a freezer-safe container separated by layers of parchment paper. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
These chewy, festive cookie bars are a guaranteed holiday hit. For an extra indulgent serving, try them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of hot cocoa. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chopped pecans, white chocolate chips, or substituting the M&M’s with other festive candies like crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist. Happy baking!