As the winter chill wraps around us, the air fills with the sweetness of nostalgia and the warmth of family gatherings. These Christmas Bars are like a delicious hug in dessert form, bringing together the comforting flavors of cookie dough, rich chocolate, and a burst of festive cranberries and marshmallows. Gather your loved ones, and let’s make some memories!
Why make this recipe
Christmas Bars are the perfect treat to share during the holiday season. With their easy preparation and delightful combination of flavors, these bars will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, they are a fun activity to do with your family or friends, turning an ordinary afternoon into a cherished holiday tradition.
How to make Christmas Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup cookie dough
- 1/2 cup marshmallows
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing the warmth to fill your home.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie dough and chocolate chips. This mixture shines with gooey potential, already a glimpse of the joy to come.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, pressing it down gently. It should be a lovely, even layer, begging for those festive toppings.
- Sprinkle the marshmallows and dried cranberries on top, letting their colors pop against the rich chocolatey base. It’s like adding jewels to a crown!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares; patience is key here as the flavors meld perfectly in that cooling period.
How to serve Christmas Bars
Cut these delightful bars into generous squares and serve them on a festive platter. You might want to garnish them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few extra dried cranberries for that holiday vibe. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or a hot spiced apple cider – the ultimate holiday pairing!
How to store Christmas Bars
These Christmas Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap the individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and seal them in a freezer bag — they’ll delight you even in the depths of winter!
Tips to make Christmas Bars
- Make your own cookie dough from scratch for an even more flavorful base!
- Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate, to discover your perfect flavor harmony.
- Add nuts for an extra crunch, or drizzle some caramel on top for an indulgent twist.
Variations
These bars are wonderfully versatile! You can swap out cranberries for chopped dried apricots or figs. For a festive flair, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for that cozy, spiced flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought cookie dough simplifies the process and still delivers a delicious result.
Q: How can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: You can use gluten-free cookie dough and ensure your chocolate chips are also gluten-free!
Q: What can I do if I don’t have marshmallows?
A: Don’t worry! You can substitute with mini chocolate chips or leave them out altogether – your bars will still be delightful without them.
Embrace the joy of the season, and let these Christmas Bars become a beloved part of your holiday celebrations. Happy baking, and may your festivities be filled with sweetness and love!
Christmas Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie dough and chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, pressing it down gently.
- Sprinkle the marshmallows and dried cranberries on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares.