In the hushed glow of the holiday season, where warmth and wonder intermingle, the Christmas Bar Cookies emerge as an enchanting spectacle. Their vibrant colors and soft, inviting texture beckon you to indulge in the sweetness of togetherness, gently weaving the spirit of celebration into each bite.
The allure of crafting these delightful confections lies not only in their joyous presentation but also in the effortless joy they bring to both the baker and those who gather to share them. Their enchanting blend of flavors melds into a holiday experience, transcending the humble cookie to become a cherished memory.
How to make Christmas Bar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
- 1/4 cup Christmas jimmies
- Christmas sprinkles, for sprinkling
Directions:
Begin by infusing your kitchen with the rich aroma of anticipation. Preheat the oven to a warm 350 degrees F. Tenderly brush an 8×8-inch square baking pan with melted butter, and line it delicately with parchment paper, preparing a cradle for your sweet creation.
In a large, inviting bowl, whisk together the melted butter and the sugars until you achieve a silky, smooth elixir. Into this, incorporate the room-temperature egg and a fragrant whisper of vanilla, ensuring every element harmonizes in delightful union. Gently fold in the flour and salt, stirring until just moistened, allowing the ingredients to dance together without overmixing.
Now, with a careful hand, invite the chocolate chips, a generous 1/2 cup of M&M’s, and the cheerful jimmies into your mixture. This blend of textures and colors becomes a tapestry of holiday cheer.
Transfer the lovingly prepared batter to your baking pan, smoothing the top with a gentle touch. Adorn the surface with the remaining M&M’s, as they will glisten and shine during their time in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top gleams golden brown and a toothpick emerges clean, signifying the birth of your cookie masterpiece. Allow your creation to cool completely on a wire rack, breathing in the sweet notes of anticipation that fill the air. Gently lift it from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into evenly charming squares.
How to serve Christmas Bar Cookies
Present your Christmas Bar Cookies as a centerpiece on your holiday table, a jewel among the seasonal offerings. Each square, adorned with vibrant colors, invites a celebration of flavor and joy. Pair them with a warm cup of spiced cocoa or a rich coffee, allowing the aromas to entwine and elevate the moment, as laughter and stories flow freely among loved ones.
How to store Christmas Bar Cookies
To preserve the delightful softness and vibrant flavors of your Christmas Bar Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can enchant your holiday gatherings for up to a week, their beauty resilient against the passage of time. For extended enjoyment, you may freeze them, ensuring that their charm remains intact for future celebrations.
Tips to make Christmas Bar Cookies
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for an enhanced depth of flavor.
- Ensure that your butter is still warm but not hot when combined with the sugars to maintain a velvety texture.
- Experiment with different festive add-ins, such as chopped nuts or dried cranberries, to personalize your cookie experience.
Variations
For those seeking a twist on tradition, consider substituting white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast or incorporating crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing holiday zing. Each variation offers a unique spin on this beloved recipe, inviting creativity into your baking.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Certainly, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, you can ensure that everyone can delight in these festive treats.
What if I don’t have M&M’s?
No worries! Substitute with chopped chocolate bars, seasonal sprinkles, or even dried fruit for a different, yet equally festive, flavor profile.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
In addition to jimmies, consider swirling in a dash of peppermint extract or a layer of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent touch. The beauty of baking is in the details you choose to add.
In the embrace of each ingredient, amidst the dance of flavors, and the joy of creation, we find the true essence of baking: a gentle reminder of patience, artistry, and the comfort of sharing moments that linger long after the last bite. Celebrating the holiday spirit through the craft of baking transforms simple ingredients into a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Christmas Bar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch square baking pan with melted butter and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the room temperature egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gently fold in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Add the chocolate chips, M&Ms, and jimmies to the batter, folding gently to combine.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top.
- Top with remaining M&Ms for decoration.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, lift the cookies out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.