Christmas Cookie Bars (Printable Version)
Soft, chewy bars loaded with chocolate chips and festive sprinkles - the perfect holiday treat for gatherings and gift-giving.
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
03 -
1 cup brown sugar, packed
04 -
2 large eggs
05 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
06 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
07 -
1 teaspoon baking powder
08 -
1 teaspoon baking soda
09 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Mix-ins & Decorations
10 -
2 cups chocolate chips
11 -
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
12 -
1/2 cup festive sprinkles (for decoration)
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 -
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
03 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
04 -
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
05 -
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
06 -
Fold in the chocolate chips, nuts (if using), and half of the sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
07 -
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners and smoothing the top. Sprinkle remaining decorative sprinkles on top.
08 -
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and edges are golden brown.
09 -
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
10 -
Once cooled, cut the cookie bars into squares or rectangles as desired and serve.
# Notes:
01 -
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness.
02 -
These cookie bars can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag before freezing.
03 -
Try variations with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or coconut flakes for different flavor profiles.
04 -
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.