If you’re looking for a festive treat that combines rich buttery goodness, festive colors, and a sprinkle of holiday magic, you absolutely have to try this Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe. Imagine chewy, soft cookie bars bursting with red and green chocolate candies, creamy white chocolate chips, and a dash of cheerful sprinkles—everything you love about a holiday cookie, but in a convenient bar form that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or just sneaking a few extra squares for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to create a beautifully textured, flavorful bar. Each one plays a special role: the butter brings richness, sugars add the perfect balance of sweetness, and chocolate candies plus sprinkles give those festive pops of color and surprise in every bite.
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened: This is the creamy base that adds richness and tenderness to the bars.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness and helps with that perfect chewy texture.
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note, boosting depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the dough structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors with warm, sweet aromatics.
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation helping create that classic cookie bar chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lift so the bars aren’t too dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder for balanced rise and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and chocolate flavors brilliantly.
- 1 cup (180g) red and green chocolate candies: Classic festive colors that melt slightly into soft pockets of chocolate yum.
- 1/2 cup (90g) white chocolate chips: Adds creamy sweetness and melts into luscious white chocolate ribbons.
- 1/4 cup (40g) holiday sprinkles: For a whimsical, colorful crunch that brightens every bite and the presentation.
How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease your 9×13-inch baking pan or line it neatly with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookie bars will slide out easily after baking, so you get perfect squares every time without any sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer to beat the softened butter together with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This creaming step is key because it traps air, giving the bars that soft, tender crumb instead of dense heaviness.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract, which adds that classic comforting, warm flavor we all crave in holiday treats. Mix everything well to create a smooth, glossy batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding them in gently but thoroughly so the batter comes together without over-mixing, keeping the bars tender.
Step 5: Fold in Festive Mix-ins
Now the fun part: gently fold in your red and green chocolate candies, white chocolate chips, and half of the holiday sprinkles. These vibrant mix-ins bring cheerful colors and bursts of sweet chocolate in every bite, making these cookie bars feel like a real holiday celebration.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it into a level layer. Sprinkle the remaining holiday sprinkles over the top for an extra sparkle. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown but the center is still soft. These bars continue to set as they cool, so don’t worry if the middle seems slightly underbaked when you pull them out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into 24 squares. Cooling solidifies the bars and makes for the cleanest cuts. Plus, the anticipation makes the first bite even sweeter!
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Try adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the bars just before serving. These extra touches elevate the festive presentation and add a little extra sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crunchy sprinkles and melty chips inside.
Side Dishes
These cookie bars are lovely alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a creamy latte. The rich sweetness of the bars complements the warmth and spice of these drinks beautifully, making it a cozy holiday pairing that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer the cookie bars on a tiered holiday dessert tray surrounded by fresh cranberries, pine sprigs, and cinnamon sticks for an inviting holiday centerpiece. Or wrap individual bars in festive cellophane with ribbons for quick, delightful gifts that friends and neighbors will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This ensures they stay soft and chewy without drying out, so you can enjoy them well after the initial baking day.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars in advance, cut them into squares and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer the bars to a resealable freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months—perfect for holiday planning or last-minute treats.
Reheating
To bring frozen bars back to life, thaw them at room temperature, then warm briefly in a microwave or oven. This gives you that fresh-baked gooey texture once again, as if they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate candies?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the red and green candies for your favorite chocolate pieces or nuts. Just aim for similar-sized mix-ins to keep the texture even and festive.
What if I don’t have holiday sprinkles?
No worries! You can use regular colorful sprinkles or even shredded coconut dyed with food coloring for a fun twist. The sprinkles mainly add festive flair and a little crunch.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, you can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets. Just ensure any mix-ins are also gluten-free.
Do I have to refrigerate the bars?
No refrigeration is needed if you plan to eat them within a few days. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigerate only if your home is very warm or humid.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the bars?
Waiting until the bars are fully cooled is key. Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts also helps you get perfect squares without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe is a true holiday gem that brings joy with every bite. It’s easy enough to whip up on a busy day but impressive enough to share at holiday gatherings, gift to friends, or simply savor by the fire. Give this recipe a try and watch how it becomes a festive favorite in your household!
Print
Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
Description
These festive Christmas Cookie Bars combine buttery dough with vibrant red and green chocolate candies, white chocolate chips, and holiday sprinkles, perfect for celebrating the season with a delicious, easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup (180g) red and green chocolate candies (like M&Ms)
- 1/2 cup (90g) white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (40g) holiday sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a creamy base, incorporating air for tenderness.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in tough bars.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the red and green chocolate candies, white chocolate chips, and half of the holiday sprinkles, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Spread Dough in Pan: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, pressing it into a smooth, flat layer to ensure even baking.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining holiday sprinkles evenly over the top of the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 24 squares to ensure clean cuts and firm texture.
Notes
- For best results, soften the butter to room temperature to ensure proper creaming with the sugars.
- Make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the bars tender and soft.
- Use parchment paper in the baking pan for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
