These Christmas cookie bars offer a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats, combining the essence of a chocolate chip cookie with festive flavors. In just one bowl and without the need for an electric mixer, you can prepare these delicious bars that promise to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C), and prepare an 8×8-inch square pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang on all sides. This simple step ensures easy removal and less cleanup afterward.
The dough comes together effortlessly. Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and blend it with 3/4 cup of firmly packed dark brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of white sugar. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, mixing until well combined. This combination builds a rich and flavorful base, enhanced by the addition of a room-temperature egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Once the wet ingredients are mixed, gently incorporate 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Care is taken to mix just until combined, preventing a dense texture. Then, fold in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of holiday M&Ms, and 2 tablespoons of holiday jimmy sprinkles, adding extra for topping if desired.
Pour the prepared batter into your lined pan, spreading it evenly. For added visual appeal and a burst of chocolatey goodness, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips, M&Ms, and sprinkles on top.
Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes until puffed and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a holiday atmosphere. Once done, allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 servings. Each bar delivers a buttery, chocolate-studded bite with a hint of nutmeg, aligning perfectly with the festive spirit.
Nutritionally, each serving contains approximately 208 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 28 grams of carbohydrates, offering a sweet indulgence without overly excessive calories.
In summary, these Christmas cookie bars encapsulate the joy of the holiday season in a quick and uncomplicated recipe. Perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike, these bars lend themselves to personalization with your favorite festive toppings, making them a versatile addition to any holiday gathering.
Source: Allrecipes
