Description
Christmas Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (250g) whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup red and green chocolate candies
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Preparation:
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch pan.
Blend sugar, butter, and eggs until creamy. Mix in flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
Stir in chocolate candies and dried cranberries.
Bake for 25–30 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
#SantaCookieBars
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease any exposed pan sides.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted (and slightly cooled) unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk vigorously until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is creamy and slightly thickened.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding with a spatula until just combined and no dry flour remains.
5. Gently fold in the red and green chocolate candies and dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Transfer the thick batter to your prepared pan. Use the spatula to spread it into an even layer, pushing it into the corners.
7. Bake on the center rack for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Once cool, use the parchment paper to lift the entire slab out. Dust generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve, then cut into squares.
Serving Suggestions
These festive bars are versatile. Serve them on a holiday platter alongside other Christmas treats. For a special touch, plate individual bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair wonderfully with a mug of hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced cider. For gifting, stack them in a festive cookie tin or arrange them in a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix wet ingredients (melted butter, sugars, eggs). Fold in dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, cinnamon). Stir in candies and cranberries. Spread into a lined 9×13 pan. Bake 25-30 minutes. Cool completely, dust with powdered sugar, and cut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat? Yes. Substitute an equal amount of all-purpose flour for a slightly lighter texture.
How should I store these bars? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; dust with powdered sugar after thawing.
My bars came out dry. What happened? Overbaking is the most common cause. Ovens vary, so start checking at the 22-minute mark. Also, ensure you’re accurately measuring your flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off.
Can I use different mix-ins? Absolutely! Try white chocolate chips and pistachios, or butterscotch chips and chopped pecans for a different festive twist.
The butter made my batter look greasy. Is that okay? Ensure your melted butter has cooled for about 10 minutes before mixing. If it’s too hot, it can “cook” the eggs and separate the batter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using hot, freshly melted butter, as it can scramble the eggs. Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this can develop gluten and make the bars tough. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper rise. Finally, resist cutting the bars while they are still warm, as they will crumble; patience for complete cooling is key for clean slices.
Conclusion
These Christmas Cookie Bars are the ultimate easy, festive dessert. Combining the chewiness of a cookie with the simplicity of bar cookies, they deliver holiday flavor in every bite with minimal fuss. Perfect for potlucks, cookie exchanges, or a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal staple. Enjoy the merry baking and the delicious results!
