Name: Easy Christmas Cookie Bars - The Perfect Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); Holiday sprinkles for decoration

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🎄✨ Easy Christmas Cookie Bars – The Perfect Holiday Treat 🎅🍪

1. Introduction

When it comes to celebrating the festive season, few desserts evoke holiday cheer quite like Christmas Cookie Bars. These treats offer the nostalgia of holiday baking combined with the convenience of a bar-style dessert. Imagine layers of buttery cookie dough, gooey chocolate, and festive sprinkles all baked into a single pan—perfect for sharing with loved ones or bringing to holiday gatherings. If you’re searching for a delicious, crowd-pleasing Holiday Cookie Bars recipe that’s simple yet impressive, you’re in the right place.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a quick holiday baking idea.

One-pan dessert that requires minimal cleanup.
Customizable toppings for a festive look and flavor.
Perfect for gifting or serving at a cookie exchange.
Deliciously crisp texture on the edges with a chewy center.

3. Ingredient Notes

For the best Christmas Cookie Bars, quality ingredients truly shine. Use unsalted butter for a rich, tender base, and opt for high-quality chocolate—whether dark, milk, or white—to elevate the flavor profile. I recommend choosing fresh baking supplies, like baking powder and vanilla extract, for added depth. Festive sprinkles or holiday-themed candies can turn these bars into a visually stunning treat that captures the spirit of the season.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To craft these delectable Festive Cookie Bars, having the right tools makes all the difference. An excellent Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics can be perfect for baking small batches or warming leftovers. A high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even baking and easy cleaning. For mixing and dough preparation, a reliable KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange or a sturdy hand mixer helps you combine ingredients smoothly and efficiently.

5. How to Make Easy Christmas Cookie Bars

Prepare the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper—this makes removal and cleanup effortless. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla to create a rich, aromatic base. Add in flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Look for a slightly crumbly but cohesive texture, signaling it’s ready to press into your pan.

Create the Layers

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spatula. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the aroma fills your kitchen. While it’s baking, melt your choice of chocolate (either in a microwave or a double boiler) and prepare any toppings like sprinkles or crushed candies.

Assemble & Bake

Once the base cools slightly, spread the melted chocolate evenly over it. Sprinkle festive toppings generously, pressing them in lightly so they adhere well. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and toppings to set. The bars should have a glossy finish with edges that are crisp, yet the center remains chewy and delectable.

6. Expert Tips for Success

For an extra flavor dimension, add chopped nuts or dried cranberries into the dough before baking.
Ensure butter is softened but not melted to get the perfect dough consistency.
Chill the bars after baking for at least 30 minutes to set the layers before slicing, which results in cleaner cuts.

Use a sharp knife heated with hot water to slice through the bars without cracking the toppings.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you need to adapt this recipe, consider these options:

Vegan version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Healthy twist: Use oats and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Holiday Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey texture or serve directly from the fridge for a firmer bite. These bars also freeze well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

9. FAQ

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and bake the bars a day before your gathering. Store them in an airtight container, and add toppings on the day of serving to keep them fresh and festive.

How do I prevent the toppings from sliding off?

Press the toppings gently into the melted chocolate while still warm, then return to the oven briefly to help them adhere. Alternatively, sprinkle toppings immediately after spreading the chocolate layer while everything is still warm.

What is the best way to cut these cookie bars?

Use a sharp, warm knife—dip it in hot water and wipe dry before slicing—to achieve clean, beautiful squares without cracking or crumbling.

10. Conclusion

These Easy Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful addition to your holiday dessert lineup. They combine simplicity, festivity, and irresistible flavor—making them perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties. With a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a show-stopping treat that everyone’s sure to enjoy. Happy baking and happy holidays!

Easy Christmas Cookie Bars – The Perfect Holiday Treat