Christmas Cookie Bars

Name: Christmas Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup chocolate chips

by Peter Harper

Published on: December 2, 2025

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Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas Cookie Bars are a festive treat that will fill your home with delightful aromas of vanilla and chocolate as they bake. With a chewy center and a slightly crisp edge, these bars are a texture dream come true. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights, this easy-to-make recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, allowing you to savor the joy of the season without the stress of complicated desserts. Gather your loved ones around for a taste of these sweet bars as you share laughter and memories this holiday season.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why make Christmas Cookie Bars? They are the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making them an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or last-minute gifts for friends and family. With a simple ingredient list and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a deliciously festive treat. Plus, their versatility means you can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Whether served warm out of the oven or enjoyed days later, these bars are sure to become a staple in your holiday treats lineup.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This recipe celebrates the essence of the season with delightful ingredients that evoke the warmth of the holidays. Bursting with cheerful buttery golden hues, rich chocolate chips, and a hint of sweetness, these cookie bars are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The buttery aroma mingles with hints of vanilla, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone to the kitchen. Utilizing fresh, local ingredients during the season enhances the flavor while supporting sustainable choices. With every bite, you can savor the comfort and accessibility of seasonal baking.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
This creates a rich, smooth texture that binds the ingredients together beautifully.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sweetens the bars while adding a lovely crunch when baked.
2 cups all-purpose flour
The foundation of the bars, giving them structure and a tender crumb.
1 cup chocolate chips
Melts into gooey goodness, delivering that irresistible chocolatey taste.

Substitutions:

For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
Swap in whole grain flour for a heartier taste and added nutrition.
Mini chocolate chips or different flavored chips can add a fun twist!

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly golden bars.

2. Prepare the Base

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth. This step should take about 3-5 minutes; you want the mixture to be fluffy and light.

3. Mix the Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined. Your dough should be slightly thick but still easily spreadable.

4. Fold In Chocolate Chips

Next, fold in the chocolate chips gently. This step adds a delightful pop of flavor and texture.

5. Spread the Mixture

Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

7. Cool and Slice

Allow to cool in the baking dish before cutting into bars. This waiting period lets the bars set up nicely, making them easier to slice and serve.

Essential Tools

To achieve biscuit perfection, gather these essential and optional kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls: for easy combining of ingredients.
Electric mixer: speeds up the creaming process.
Baking dish: a 9×13 inch glass or metal pan works best for baking.
Spatula: for spreading and serving.
Knife: for slicing the bars evenly.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

After baking, allow your Christmas Cookie Bars to cool completely before storing them. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in airtight bags; simply thaw them at room temperature before enjoying. These bars can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the busy holiday season without the rush of last-minute baking.

Perfect Pairings

These Christmas Cookie Bars pair beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa or peppermint tea. Serve them alongside festive ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat at your holiday gathering. Visually, arrange the bars on a beautiful holiday platter and garnish with seasonal sprinkles or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant touch that enhances both taste and presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the estimated nutrition per serving of Christmas Cookie Bars:

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry

If your dough seems dry, add a splash of milk until pliable. This adjustment will help achieve the right consistency.

Chocolate Coating Breaks

If using a chocolate topping, make sure your melted chocolate is smooth and warm to avoid cracking.

Unevenly Shaped Bars

If your bars are unevenly baked, consider using a cookie scoop for uniform-sized pieces for even baking.

Pro Tips for Best Results

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Test for doneness by lightly pressing the top; it should spring back when ready.
Let cool completely before slicing to maintain the shape of the bars and avoid crumbly edges.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Consider experimenting with these tasty twists on the classic recipe:

Add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for different flavor profiles.
Incorporate seasonal ingredients like cranberries or orange zest for a refreshing twist.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

To accommodate various dietary preferences, substitutions can be made:

Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Dairy-free: Opt for plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Always check for allergen information for chocolate chips to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Christmas Cookie Bars last?

These cookie bars will remain fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for about a week.

Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Bars?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

You can try nuts, dried fruits, or even M&M’s for a colorful spin.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They’re done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Embrace the festive spirit with these delicious Christmas Cookie Bars that are sure to delight both young and old alike. We’d love to hear how your baking goes – leave a comment and share your photos! Don’t forget to check out more dessert inspirations here: {internal_link_2}. Happy baking!