Introduction
There’s something magical about baking during the holiday season, and these Best Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect way to spread that festive cheer! Bursting with rich chocolatey goodness, they offer a delightful combination of textures—from gooey chocolate chips to a chewy, cookie-like base. These cookie bars are not just easy to whip up, but they also bring a splash of color and joy with each bite, making them an instant crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup festive sprinkles
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure that these scrumptious bars come out easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated, then add the vanilla extract for that extra touch of warmth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that tender texture!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, nuts (if you’re using them), and festive sprinkles, letting the vibrant colors promise joy in each bite.
- Spread the cookie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top for a beautiful finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling deliciousness is near!
- Once baked, allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into bars, letting the flavors settle and meld even more.
Notes or Tips
To make these bars even more festive, consider adding in your favorite holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the importance of proper creaming of the butter and sugars, which creates air pockets that lead to a light texture. Folding in the chocolate chips and sprinkles gently preserves the batter’s integrity, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you’re looking to keep it nut-free, feel free to leave them out or replace them with additional chocolate chips or dried fruit for a different flavor.
Conclusion
These Best Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, gifting to friends, or savoring with a warm cup of cocoa as you enjoy the magic of the holidays. So roll up your sleeves and indulge in some festive baking—you and your loved ones deserve it!