Oh my goodness, these Christmas cookie bars are the ultimate holiday treat! I can already smell the warm, buttery goodness wafting through my kitchen as I think about them. Every year, I whip up these delightful bars for my family gatherings, and let me tell you, they never last long! The combination of chocolate chips and nuts, wrapped up in a sweet, chewy batter, is simply irresistible. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. Trust me, once you bake these Christmas cookie bars, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated the season without them!
Ingredients for Christmas Cookie Bars
Alright, let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll want everything ready to go so you can dive straight into the fun of baking these delicious Christmas cookie bars. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup butter (softened, this is key for that creamy texture!)
- 1 cup brown sugar (for that lovely, rich sweetness)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (to balance out the brown sugar flavor)
- 2 large eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature for best mixing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (because who doesn’t love the smell of vanilla?!)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (the foundation of our bars)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to help them rise just a bit)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (for that extra lift)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this; it enhances all the flavors)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, you decide!)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work beautifully here)
That’s all there is to it! Simple, isn’t it? Just be sure to measure everything out precisely, and you’re on your way to creating a holiday masterpiece!
How to Prepare Christmas Cookie Bars
Now that we’ve got our ingredients all lined up, let’s get to the good stuff—baking these scrumptious Christmas cookie bars! I promise, the process is as delightful as the end result. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a holiday treat that will make everyone smile!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, set that oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and hot when we’re ready to bake!
- Grease the pan: Grab a 13×9 inch baking pan and give it a good greasing. You can use butter or non-stick spray—whatever you have on hand. This will help our bars come out easily without sticking!
- Cream the sugars and butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins! You’ll know it’s ready when it looks light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Crack those eggs into the bowl and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. The smell will be heavenly!
- Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Mix dry with wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—just until you can’t see any more flour. We want those bars to be chewy, not tough!
- Stir in the goodies: Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts. Feel free to taste the batter (I won’t tell!)—it’s a crucial step for quality control, right?
- Spread the batter: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. It should be nice and thick, ready to rise and bake!
- Bake: Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, though—oven times can vary!
- Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This is the hardest part—waiting! But trust me, it’s worth it. Once cool, you can cut them into bars and enjoy the festive goodness!
And there you have it! Simple, straightforward, and oh-so-rewarding. Just remember to savor the process and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. Happy baking!
Tips for Success with Christmas Cookie Bars
Alright, my fellow bakers, let’s make sure you nail these Christmas cookie bars! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will help you achieve that perfect, chewy texture and festive flavor every time. Let’s dive in!
- Check your oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s always a good idea to have an oven thermometer. If your oven runs hot, check your bars a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
- Don’t overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, and we definitely want soft and chewy!
- Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips or nuts for your favorites! Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries add a lovely festive touch, or you could even try white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
- Storage is key: Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag!
- Cool before cutting: Patience is a virtue! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Adjust for altitude: If you’re baking at a higher altitude, you might need to tweak the ingredients a bit—typically reducing baking powder and sugar. Just keep an eye on your bars as they bake!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delicious Christmas cookie bars! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own. Happy baking, friends!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Cookie Bars
Now, I know you’re probably curious about the nutritional side of these delightful Christmas cookie bars. While they’re definitely a treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional data per bar:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, enjoy these bars as a festive treat, and remember, it’s all about balance during the holiday season! Happy indulging!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, these Christmas cookie bars are not just delicious; they’re an absolute joy to make and share! Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Quick and easy: With just a handful of simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these bars in no time. Perfect for those busy holiday baking days!
- Festive flavors: The combination of chocolate and nuts, mixed with a buttery base, creates that warm, comforting holiday flavor we all crave during the season.
- Perfect for sharing: These bars are easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply sharing with neighbors. Everyone will love you for it!
- Versatile: You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins! From dried fruits to different types of chocolate, the options are endless. Get creative!
- Great for gifting: Wrap them up in festive packaging for a homemade gift that’s sure to brighten anyone’s holiday. Who wouldn’t love a sweet treat?
- Make-ahead friendly: They can be baked ahead of time and stored, so you can enjoy stress-free holiday gatherings. Just bake, cool, and store them for later!
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this delicious recipe and spread the holiday cheer with your very own Christmas cookie bars!
FAQ About Christmas Cookie Bars
I know you might have a few questions about making these delicious Christmas cookie bars, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones I hear! Don’t worry, I’ve got your back!
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your taste preferences. Each will bring a unique flavor to the bars, so feel free to mix it up!
What can I substitute for nuts?
If you’re looking to keep things nut-free, you can either leave them out entirely or replace them with something like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also add a lovely chewy texture!
How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to keep an eye on the edges; they should be golden brown while the center may look a little soft. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Just be careful not to overbake them!
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Yes, you can! These Christmas cookie bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
What’s the best way to store leftover cookie bars?
To keep your cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you find they’re not disappearing fast enough, freezing is a great option too!
So, there you have it! I hope these answers clear up any questions you might have. Now, let’s get baking those Christmas cookie bars and enjoy the festive season!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked and enjoyed your delicious Christmas cookie bars, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible! Here’s how to store them properly and the best methods for reheating if you have any leftovers (but let’s be real—these bars are usually gobbled up pretty quickly!).
Storing: To keep your cookie bars at their best, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to make them last even longer, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer. They freeze wonderfully and can be kept for up to two months!
Reheating: If you’re eager to enjoy them warm again (who wouldn’t be?), you can reheat your cookie bars in the microwave. Just pop one on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it—nobody wants a molten cookie bar! Alternatively, you can place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, which will also keep that lovely, chewy texture intact.
So, whether you’re savoring them fresh or reheating leftovers, these Christmas cookie bars are sure to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every bite!
Call to Action
Alright, friends, you’ve made it to the end of this delicious journey! I can’t wait for you to whip up these Christmas cookie bars and experience the joy they bring. Once you’ve baked them, I’d love to hear all about it! Did you add your own twist? What did your family think? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts—I’m all ears!
And if you’re feeling extra generous, why not share this recipe on your social media? Tag me in your photos so I can see your beautiful creations! Let’s spread the festive cheer together. Happy baking, and enjoy every scrumptious bite of your holiday treats!
Imprimer
Christmas Cookie Bars: 7 Irresistible Festive Delights
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 24 bars 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Delicious Christmas cookie bars with festive flavors.
Ingrédients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- These bars can be frozen for later use.
- Feel free to add dried fruits for extra flavor.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 18g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 12g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 3g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 3g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 30mg
Mots-clés: christmas cookie bars, holiday treats, dessert recipes











