The Best Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas cookie bars are the ultimate holiday treat—soft, chewy, and packed with festive flavors. Unlike traditional cookies, these bars require no rolling or cutting, making them a simple yet indulgent option for holiday baking. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a sweet addition to your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No need to shape individual cookies; just press the dough into a pan and bake.
• Festive & Colorful – Decorated with holiday sprinkles, M&M’s, or white chocolate, these bars bring Christmas cheer to every bite.
• Soft & Chewy – A perfect texture that stays moist and delicious for days.
• Customizable – You can mix in your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to make them your own.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup red and green M&M’s
• ½ cup white chocolate chips
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup holiday sprinkles

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.

6. Fold in the Mix-Ins

Using a spatula, gently fold in the M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Reserve a handful of M&M’s and sprinkles for the top.

7. Spread the Dough

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved M&M’s and holiday sprinkles on top for a festive touch.

8. Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

9. Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or rectangles.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Nutty Crunch – Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Peppermint Twist – Replace white chocolate chips with crushed candy canes.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate.

Servings & Timing

• Yield: 24 cookie bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 10 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep Christmas cookie bars from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container with a piece of bread inside—the moisture from the bread keeps the bars soft.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! Bake them up to three days in advance and store them at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use two 9×13-inch pans or a larger sheet pan for a bigger batch.

What’s the best way to cut cookie bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars before cutting also helps.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or butterscotch chips.

Can I make these cookie bars without eggs?

Yes! Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

What can I use instead of M&M’s?

Try chopped chocolate, Reese’s Pieces, or dried cranberries for a different flavor.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, chilling is not necessary, but if your butter was too soft, chilling for 30 minutes can prevent excessive spreading.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Butter gives the best flavor and consistency.

What’s the best way to package these for gifts?

Layer them in a festive tin or wrap individually in clear treat bags with a ribbon for a holiday touch.

Conclusion

These Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of festive, chewy, and delicious. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them, or just treating yourself, they’re sure to bring holiday joy to everyone who tries them. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple process, they’re a must-bake for the season. Enjoy!

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