The holiday season is a time for joy, gathering, and, of course, irresistible treats! As the crisp winter air settles in, I found myself craving something sweet to share with family and friends. That’s when I whipped up these delightful Christmas cookie bars, a festive twist on traditional cookies that offers all the warm flavors of the season in a chewy, rich bite.
What’s truly magical about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize your cookie bars with an array of mix-ins, whether you prefer chocolate chips, vibrant sprinkles, or even a surprise of dried cranberries. Simply preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and in less than an hour, you’ll have a batch of cheerful, delicious cookie bars that are perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or cozy nights in with a cup of cocoa.
Join me in indulging in this easy yet decadent treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Get ready to bake and create memories with every flavorful bite!
Why are these Christmas Cookie Bars a must-try?
Delightful versatility: These cookie bars can be easily customized with your favorite mix-ins, from chocolate chips to dried fruits, making them a treat for everyone.
Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have scrumptious bars baked and cooling in no time—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Irresistibly chewy texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying chewiness reminiscent of brownies while being packed with rich flavors.
Festive flair: The vibrant sprinkles not only add a pop of color but also the holiday spirit to every square—ideal for sharing!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or surprising friends with a home-baked gift, these cookie bars are sure to impress and delight all who taste them!
Christmas Cookie Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to bake!
For the Batter
- Butter – Provides fat for moisture and richness; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to structure; no direct substitute, but sweetener alternatives can be used in moderation.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; for a lighter flavor, replace with more granulated sugar.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides leavening; vegan options include flaxseed eggs or applesauce.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can substitute with almond extract for a different touch.
- All-Purpose Flour – Main structure-building ingredient; can be replaced with gluten-free all-purpose flour with adjustments.
- Baking Powder – Leavens to create a light texture; important for rise—no substitute recommended.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; do not omit as it activates with acidic ingredients.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavor; crucial for contrast.
For the Mix-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and richness; feel free to mix in white chocolate or dark chocolate for variety.
- Chopped Nuts (optional) – Provides crunch and texture; use walnuts or pecans, or omit for nut-free bars.
- Festive Sprinkles – Decorative element for visual appeal; substitute with coconut flakes or extra chocolate chips for fun variations.
This delightful recipe for Christmas Cookie Bars is not only a treat but also a canvas for creativity, allowing you to create holiday magic in your kitchen without much fuss!
How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake your cookie bars evenly and perfectly.
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Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This allows for easy removal of your cookie bars after baking.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This mixture is essential for creating the right texture in your bars.
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Cream the unsalted butter and both granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
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Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined to keep the batter tender—remember, don’t overmix!
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Fold in your chosen mix-ins, like chocolate chips and nuts (if desired), ensuring an even distribution without breaking them up.
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Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even outcome.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—a sign your cookie bars are done!
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Cool the bars in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then gently lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Cut into squares or rectangles once cooled. Serve and enjoy the festive joy of your delicious Christmas cookie bars!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing the cookie bars with these delightful options!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to easily cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs or applesauce and use vegan butter for a delicious plant-based treat.
- Fruitful Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples for a burst of holiday-friendly fruitiness in every bite.
- Spice It Up: Infuse with ground ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg to evoke that warm gingerbread flavor everyone loves during the holidays.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans for extra texture; they complement the sweetness beautifully.
- Decadent Chocolate: Swap in dark or white chocolate chips to create contrasting flavors that elevate your cookie bars.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over the top after baking for an indulgent sweet touch that takes the bars to new heights.
- Coconut Charm: Mix in shredded coconut or sprinkle on top before baking for a tropical twist amidst the holiday cheer.
What to Serve with Christmas Cookie Bars?
As you dive into the festive flavors of these delightful cookie bars, envision the perfect companions to enhance your holiday experience.
- Rich Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing that warms the soul and complements the sweetness of the bars. Add a sprinkle of marshmallows for extra cheer!
- Spiced Eggnog: The creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog creates a holiday vibe, making it a joyful drink alongside your cookie bars.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop on the side for a delightful contrast—warm, chewy bars combined with cold, creamy ice cream is pure bliss.
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai elevate the flavors of the cookie bars, offering a cozy drink option that feels festive and comforting.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits like pomegranates and oranges adds a refreshing note, balancing the richness of your cookie bars beautifully.
- Nutty Charcuterie Board: Create a festive platter with nuts, cheeses, and dried fruits. The saltiness of the cheese and crunch of the nuts lend a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
- Gingerbread Cookies: For a double dose of festive cheer, pair your cookie bars with traditional gingerbread cookies for a delightful holiday treat combination.
- Mulled Wine: The warm, spiced flavors of mulled wine bring a delightful warmth that enhances the joy of holiday gatherings when enjoyed with cookie bars.
Tips for the Best Christmas Cookie Bars
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugars; this creates a light, fluffy batter essential for rich cookie bars.
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Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the desired tender texture.
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Watch the Baking Time: Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes. Ovens can vary, and overbaking will result in dry cookie bars.
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Cool Before Cutting: It’s crucial to let the bars cool completely in the pan. This prevents crumbling and makes for neat, beautiful squares.
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Mix-In Balance: When adding mix-ins, keep a balance between wet and dry ingredients. Too many add-ins can affect the overall texture of your Christmas cookie bars.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate your cookie bars in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This also helps keep them moist!
Freezer: Freeze your Christmas cookie bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh taste that brings back those delightful flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients (except for mix-ins), then cover and refrigerate it. To maintain freshness and texture, store the batter in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold in your chosen mix-ins and spread the batter in the prepared pan, then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll still be just as delicious!
Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the cookie bars?
Absolutely! For the best results, use unsalted butter. This allows you to have complete control over the salt content in the recipe, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars!
How long do Christmas cookie bars stay fresh?
These delightful cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just remember, the colder they are, the less chewy they might feel, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I freeze the Christmas cookie bars?
Very much so! To freeze your cookie bars, first, ensure they are completely cooled. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up of about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cookie bars turn out too dry?
If your cookie bars come out dry, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. Always set a timer for the recommended baking time and check for doneness at the 25-minute mark. If dry bars happen, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to bring back some moisture and add a delightful twist.
Are these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make these Christmas cookie bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to follow the measurement instructions on the flour packaging, as gluten-free flours can vary in absorption rates.
Can I give these cookie bars to my pet?
It’s best not to share cookie bars with your pets. Ingredients like chocolate and sugar are harmful to dogs and other pets. Instead, create a pet-friendly treat using ingredients that are safe for them—like oat flour and peanut butter—so everyone can enjoy the festive treats!
Remember, these Christmas cookie bars are not just delicious; they spread joy during the holiday season!
Delicious Christmas Cookie Bars with Festive Mix-Ins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream the unsalted butter and both granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined to keep the batter tender.
- Fold in your chosen mix-ins, ensuring an even distribution without breaking them up.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bars in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut into squares or rectangles once cooled and enjoy.