Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the comforting aromas of baking and cherished family recipes. These Christmas Bars are the perfect festive treat, blending the rich sweetness of chocolate and brown sugar with the tartness of dried cranberries or cherries. With their chewy texture and delightful crunch from nuts, they make a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or simply as a cozy indulgence at home. Gather around and let’s bring a bit of holiday magic into your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (milk or dark, your choice)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup dried cranberries or cherries
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 generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the delicious bars later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated 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 one is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lovely notes of vanilla extract until thoroughly blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will give your bars the perfect structure!
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Now, fold in the chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries (or cherries) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, creating a festive mix.
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finally, cut into squares and serve to friends and family, or enjoy some all for yourself!
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, you can sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking, or add a splash of your favorite liqueur to the batter for a grown-up twist. Feel free to adjust the mix-ins based on your preference or what you have on hand, such as swapping out nuts for seeds or adding in your favorite dried fruits!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming butter and sugar is a vital step in baking that creates air pockets in the batter, leading to a light and fluffy texture. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for best results. Additionally, folding in ingredients gently helps maintain the batter’s airy consistency. If you’re not sure about doneness, it’s always best to check with a toothpick—better slightly underbaked than overbaked to keep those bars chewy and delicious.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Christmas Bars store wonderfully. You can make them a few days in advance, just ensure they are kept in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Cut them into squares, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and separate layers with parchment paper. They will keep well for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Christmas Bars are more than just a simple dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors that will surely bring warmth and joy to your holiday festivities. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa, they are bound to become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking and enjoy every delectable bite!