CHRISTMAS M&M COOKIE BARS

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An Irresistible Holiday Treat: Christmas M&M Cookie Bars

Imagine the warmth of a cozy kitchen on a frosty winter day, the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the air. These Christmas M&M Cookie Bars capture that essence perfectly, blending gooey chocolate chips and colorful M&M’s into a delightful treat. Perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or a festive party, they’re as easy to make as they are delicious to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookie bars are not only visually festive but also incredibly satisfying. Their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13″ or 15×10″ baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Non-stick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping if desired)
• 1 cup M&M’s (plus more for topping if desired)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. For thicker bars, line a 9×13″ baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving some excess for easy removal. Use a 15×10″ pan for thinner bars. Spray with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars for about 1 minute.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add in the flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring until everything is well incorporated.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s, reserving about 1/4 cup for topping.
6. Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips and M&M’s on top.
7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely before removing from the pan and slicing.

Tips for Success

Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve the perfect creamy consistency when mixing. Also, allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing will help maintain their shape.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try using different types of M&M’s, like peanut or pretzel, for a unique twist.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values can vary, each serving typically contains:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze these cookie bars? Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead? Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips can add a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the M&M’s.

Conclusion

These Christmas M&M Cookie Bars are a festive and delightful treat that will bring joy to any holiday gathering. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a favorite tradition. Give them a try and share your baking success with friends and family!

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