Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the home during the holiday season. These Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect solution for those who want to spread the festive cheer without the hassle of rolling and cutting out individual cookies. With their soft, chewy texture and rich chocolatey goodness, they’re simply irresistible! Topped with colorful holiday sprinkles, these bars not only taste great but also look delightful on any dessert table. Let’s dive into this easy and festive recipe that’ll make your holiday baking a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup holiday-themed sprinkles
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and absolutely delightful!
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the fragrant vanilla extract, allowing its sweet scent to fill your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring just until they come together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookie bars tender!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, followed by half of the vibrant holiday-themed sprinkles for that festive flair.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Top the dough with the remaining holiday-themed sprinkles, adding a touch of color and fun.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The scent will be heavenly!
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan. When sufficiently cool, slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting; this makes for a smooth batter. Feel free to customize your cookie bars by adding nuts or swapping in different types of chips, like white chocolate or butterscotch. These bars can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, although I doubt they will last that long with all the holiday festivities!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugars, aim for a light and airy texture, which contributes to the cookie bars’ pleasant softness. Not overmixing is crucial once you add the dry ingredients; mixing until just combined ensures a tender bake. You’ll want to keep an eye on the baking time – every oven is a bit different, and an overbaked cookie bar can lose its chewy charm!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
You can easily substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even switch to white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Christmas Cookie Bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, festive potlucks, or simply enjoying with a warm mug of cocoa. Their delightful flavors and cheerful appearance will surely become a cherished favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. So, gather your loved ones around and make some joyful memories in the kitchen! Happy baking and happy holidays!