Nothing says holiday cheer like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. These Christmas Cookie Bars are the ultimate festive treat—chewy, buttery, and brimming with red and green candies, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles for that extra holiday magic. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gift boxes, or just sharing with loved ones, they’re as delightful to eat as they are to make!
The Sweet History of Christmas Cookies
Christmas cookies have been a tradition since the Middle Ages when spiced biscuits made with exotic ingredients like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg were shared during celebrations. Over time, these treats evolved into colorful and creative desserts symbolizing joy and generosity. These cookie bars are a modern twist, bringing together the charm of holiday cookies and the convenience of a bar format for easy baking and sharing.
Ingredients
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
1 cup (180g) red and green chocolate candies (like M&Ms)
½ cup (90g) white chocolate chips
¼ cup (40g) holiday sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the red and green chocolate candies, white chocolate chips, and half of the holiday sprinkles for that festive touch.
Step 6: Spread in Pan
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it forms a smooth layer. Sprinkle the remaining sprinkles on top for extra sparkle.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, slice into 24 squares and serve.
Benefits of This Recipe
Festive Appeal: The red, green, and white colors make these bars a standout addition to any holiday spread.
Convenient: Bar cookies are easier and faster to make than individual cookies.
Customizable: Swap out the candies, add nuts, or use dark chocolate chips for your own twist.
Perfect for Sharing: These bars make excellent gifts or treats for holiday parties.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fat: 11 g
Sodium: 85 mg
Sugar: 17 g
Formation Tips
Even Layers: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly press the dough into the pan.
Festive Sprinkles: Add more sprinkles right after baking for vibrant colors.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Conclusion
Christmas Cookie Bars are the ultimate sweet treat for spreading holiday joy. Their rich buttery flavor, festive appearance, and chewy texture make them irresistible to both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or Santa himself, these bars are sure to be a hit.
For the Lovers of Holiday Magic
This recipe is for everyone who cherishes the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season. It’s for the sprinkle enthusiasts, the candy lovers, and the bakers who know that the best gifts come from the heart (and the oven). Bake these bars and share the love—because Christmas is sweeter together!