The BEST Christmas Cookie Bars: A Delicious Holiday Treat

Introducing the ultimate holiday indulgence – The BEST Christmas Cookie Bars. These delectable treats are packed with festive flavors and a buttery, crunchy texture that will make them the highlight of your Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or looking for a scrumptious gift to share, these cookie bars are a delightful option sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas Cookie Bars combine the best of holiday flavors into one decadent bite. The rich combination of chocolate, nuts, and spices will leave you craving more. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re easy to transport and make a wonderful centerpiece on any dessert table.

The BEST Christmas Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With just a few common ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a dessert that impresses guests without stress. Moreover, their versatility allows you to customize flavors according to your preferences, making them truly unique.

Context/Background

Cookie bars have been a part of holiday traditions for decades, originally inspired by classic cookie recipes and transformed to suit modern lifestyles. Their ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd make them a popular choice for festive occasions. These particular bars harness the warmth and joy of Christmas through carefully curated ingredients, ensuring they capture the spirit of the season.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bars to cool in the pan before slicing into squares.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookie Bars

• Ensure butter is fully melted for a smoother batter mix.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bars light and tender.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Customize by adding dried cranberries or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a hot cup of cocoa. They also pair perfectly with a festive afternoon tea.

Storage and Leftovers

Store your Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer preservation, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Christmas Cookie Bars are a must-try recipe for this holiday season. With their rich flavors and simple preparation, they’re an easy way to spread joy and cheer through delicious homemade treats. Share them with loved ones and make your Christmas celebrations extra special.

Recipe Notes

• For a vegan option, replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs.
• Feel free to substitute chopped pecans or almonds for walnuts based on your preference.
• Experiment with white chocolate or festive-colored candy pieces for a more colorful presentation.