The smell of warm, freshly baked cookies wafting through the house brings back so many wonderful memories. I can almost see my family gathered around the kitchen table, eagerly waiting for their share of treats. Christmas Cookie Bars hold a special place in my heart as they are easy to make and bring everyone together during the holiday season. With layers of buttery goodness and sweet chocolate chips, these bars are perfect for sharing. What makes this recipe special is how simple it is while still delivering that cozy, festive feeling.
Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that transforms the usual cookie-making routine into a fun and quick baking experience. These bars save you the hassle of rolling and cutting dough, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules. Plus, they’re great for sharing at parties, holiday gatherings, or just enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa at home. With their soft texture and rich flavor, they are sure to win over everyone who tries them.
How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour and mix until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars
Serve Christmas Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or rectangles and arrange them on a festive platter. They are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. Adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top can also give them a lovely festive touch.
How to Store Christmas Cookie Bars
To keep your Christmas Cookie Bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Christmas Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this helps keep the bars soft.
- For a fun twist, try adding nuts or dried fruits along with the chocolate chips.
- Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; ovens can vary, and you want them to be golden on the edges but still soft in the middle.
Variation
For a slight variation, try using different types of chocolate chips, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate. You could also add peppermint extract for a holiday twist or top the bars with crushed candy canes for a festive look.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, using brown sugar will give the bars a richer flavor and a chewier texture.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown color on the edges. You can also insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bars are done.
Christmas Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Don't overmix once added for softer bars.
- 1 cup chocolate chips Feel free to use different types of chocolate chips.
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour and mix until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.