Christmas Cookie Bars

If you’re looking for a festive treat that captures all the warmth and magic of the season, these Christmas Cookie Bars are your new best friend in the kitchen. Easy to make, bursting with holiday flavors, and perfectly portable, these bars bring holiday joy to every bite. Combining classic cookie ingredients with eye-catching sprinkles and a luscious glaze, this recipe is perfect for quick holiday baking that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Baking: Requires minimal prep and one pan, making holiday baking stress-free.
• Festive Flavors: Classic Christmas spices and colorful sprinkles bring joyful holiday vibes.
• Perfect Gift Idea: Easy to package and share with loved ones or coworkers as a sweet gift.
• Customizable: Adapt ingredients to fit dietary needs or flavor preferences without losing the magic.
• Great Texture: Soft, chewy, and just the right amount of gooey in every bar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Christmas Cookie Bars recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component contributes uniquely to the taste, texture, and festive appearance, ensuring every bar is a delicious celebration.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender but sturdy cookie bar.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bars evenly and helps achieve a chewy texture.
• Brown Sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for depth.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm sweetness.
• Baking Soda & Salt: Balance the sweetness and help the bars rise slightly.
• Christmas Sprinkles or Colored Sugar: Infuse cheerfulness and vibrant holiday colors.
• Optional Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra holiday aroma.
• Powdered Sugar Glaze: A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for that perfect finishing touch.

Variations for Christmas Cookie Bars

One of the best parts about Christmas Cookie Bars is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to try different mix-ins, accommodate dietary restrictions, or simply take the recipe up a notch, these variations will inspire your baking creativity.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap out sprinkles for mini chocolate chips for a classic cookie flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a satisfying crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs to keep it plant-based.
• Zesty Citrus: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter for a fresh holiday twist.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Next, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract for rich aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and your optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening and flavor.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet batter, mixing just until combined — be careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.

Step 5: Add Festive Sprinkles

Fold in your Christmas sprinkles or colored sugar gently, making sure they’re spread evenly throughout the batter to create that joyful look in every bite.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Glaze and Cool

While the bars cool, mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth, then drizzle over the top for a sparkly, sweet finish that enhances each bar’s charm.

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Cookie Bars

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened butter and eggs at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until incorporated to avoid tough cookie bars.
• Even Thickness: Spread the batter evenly in the pan for consistent baking and uniform bars.
• Check Early: Start checking bars around 23 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Cooling is Key: Let bars cool completely before adding glaze to avoid melting and mess.

How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a few fresh cranberries, extra sprinkles, or crushed candy canes on top of the glaze just before it sets. A dusting of powdered sugar can also make them look like a snowy holiday scene.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookie bars with a warm cup of spiced cider, hot chocolate, or a creamy eggnog to complete your holiday snack experience. The combination of warm drinks and sweet bars is unbeatable during festive gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a themed platter with holiday ornaments or fresh pine sprigs for charming presentation. You can also wrap individual bars in decorative cellophane tied with a ribbon for gifting or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness and softness. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to three months, making sure to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm bars slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes to bring back their freshly baked softness and enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Any holiday-themed sprinkles will work perfectly, whether they are nonpareils, jimmies, or even edible glitter for a fancy touch.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes, these Christmas Cookie Bars are kid-friendly with their soft texture and sweet flavors, making a wonderful treat for all ages.

How do I make the bars dairy-free?

Substitute the butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil and ensure your sprinkles and glaze ingredients are dairy-free for a delicious alternative.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten.

Will the bars stay fresh if I bring them to a party?

Definitely! These bars travel well when stored in an airtight container and are perfect for holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cookie Bars recipe is truly a holiday hero—simple to make, big on festive flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting, or just treating yourself, these bars bring a sweet, joyful spark to your holiday season. So grab your mixing bowl, gather your ingredients, and create a batch that will have everyone asking for the recipe year after year!

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