Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup red and green M&Ms or holiday chocolate candies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to lift the bars out once they are cooled.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the white sugar and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until the flour streaks disappear. Do not overmix the dough.
- Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and about 3/4 cup of the red and green candies. Keep the remaining candies aside to press into the top for a more decorative look.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or clean, damp fingers to press the dough into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining holiday candies over the top and press them down lightly.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Avoid overbaking if you want a soft texture. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares.