Introduction to Christmas Cookie Bars
When the holiday season rolls around, it’s the perfect time to bring out your inner baker and whip up some delicious treats. Among the myriad of festive confections, Christmas Cookie Bars stand out as a delightful crowd-pleaser. But why are they such a festive favorite, you may ask?
Why are Christmas Cookie Bars a festive favorite?
First, these cookie bars are incredibly versatile. You can personalize them with your favorite festive add-ins, whether it's classic chocolate chips, colorful M&Ms, or a sprinkle of nuts. The vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for holiday gatherings. According to the National Confectioners Association, cookies are consistently a top pick during the holidays, and cookie bars combine the best of both worlds, offering convenience and flavor.
Moreover, Christmas Cookie Bars are a breeze to make. Unlike many traditional cookies that require a lot of scooping and rolling, these bars come together in just one bowl and are baked in a single pan, giving you more time to celebrate with loved ones. Plus, they are easy to cut into generous portions, making them great for sharing.
So, whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply looking to spread some cheer, Christmas Cookie Bars are sure to become a beloved addition to your festive repertoire. Want to get started? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Christmas Cookie Bars
When it comes to holiday baking, Christmas Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that capture the festive spirit! Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this recipe a must-try for your holiday gatherings.
Essentials
- 275 g plain flour: This is the backbone of your bars, giving them structure and that classic cookie texture.
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda: This helps your cookies rise, ensuring they’re chewy and delicious.
- ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor profile of your bars.
- 1 tablespoon cornflour: This adds softness, leaving your bars with that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice of the season, cinnamon brings that warm holiday aroma.
Sweetening and Binding
- 115 g unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps create that soft, chewy texture.
- 55 g granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that helps balance the flavors.
- 135 g light brown sugar: This provides a deeper flavor and moisture thanks to its molasses content.
- 1 medium egg: The essential binder that holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla is a must for adding a warm, comforting flavor.
Fun Add-Ins
- 200 g red/green/brown M&Ms: These festive candies add a pop of color and crunch.
- 150 g milk chocolate chips: Because who doesn’t love gooey chocolate in their Christmas Cookie Bars?
Gather these ingredients and get ready for a fun baking session that will fill your home with delightful holiday scents. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself, these cookie bars are sure to impress. For more baking ideas, you might want to explore resources like BBC Good Food, where you'll find numerous festive recipes to inspire your holiday cooking.
Preparing Christmas Cookie Bars
This year, let's spread some holiday cheer with delightful Christmas Cookie Bars! These bars are not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes when adorned with festive colors. Ready to whip up a batch? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll impress friends and family with your baking prowess.
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first: gather all your ingredients! This will streamline the process and make you feel like a baking pro:
- 275 g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 115 g unsalted butter
- 55 g granulated sugar
- 135 g light brown sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200 g festive M&Ms (red, green, or brown)
- 150 g milk chocolate chips
Make sure you have everything right before you start—nothing dampens holiday spirits like running to the store mid-baking! If you have questions about any ingredient substitutions, check out this handy guide from The Kitchn.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your dry ingredients: plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, salt, cornflour, and cinnamon. Whisk them together until evenly mixed. This is essential for ensuring your Christmas Cookie Bars rise beautifully and have a uniform flavor. If you're not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to omit it or replace it with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
Create the Cookie Dough
In a larger bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, whisking them together for about two minutes. The goal here is to dissolve the sugar and achieve a creamy texture. After that, crack in the medium egg and add the vanilla extract. Give it another brief whisk until smooth.
Next, stir in the dry mixture until a thick dough forms. Pro tip: Consider folding in some extra chocolate chips for added indulgence!
Press and Decorate
Now, it’s time to bring out that 9x9 inch tin and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Press your dough into the base evenly. Be sure to save a handful of your festive M&Ms to sprinkle on top—this not only adds color but also invites everyone to dive into your Christmas Cookie Bars.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 190°C (or 170°C if using a fan oven). Place your tin in the oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. You'll know they're done when the top looks dry and a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs—perfectly gooey! Once baked, let them cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy the festive flavors!
With this guide, your Christmas Cookie Bars will be the hit of any holiday gathering. Happy baking!
Variations on Christmas Cookie Bars
Alternative mix-ins for festive flair
Want to shake up your Christmas Cookie Bars? Consider sprinkling in some crushed candy canes for a refreshing minty twist or adding dried cranberries for a tangy bite. Chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can also add a satisfying crunch. You could even experiment with different flavored chocolate chips, like white chocolate or dark chocolate, to create your very own holiday masterpiece! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Gluten-free Christmas Cookie Bars
For those with dietary restrictions, making gluten-free Christmas Cookie Bars is simpler than you might think! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Ensure your baking powder and chocolate chips are gluten-free as well. Just like that, you can enjoy deliciously festive bars that everyone at the table can savor. Don’t forget to adjust the baking time slightly, as gluten-free versions may require a tad longer to set perfectly. Happy baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Christmas Cookie Bars
Creating the perfect batch of Christmas Cookie Bars can be a delightful yet careful process. Here are some tips to elevate your baking experience:
-
Ingredient Swaps: Don’t be afraid to swap M&Ms for your favorite festive treats like chocolate-covered pretzels or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
-
Measuring Flour: For consistent results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly. This prevents compacting and leads to a lighter bar.
-
Mixing Tips: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients. A few still-visible streaks of flour are perfectly fine and will ensure a soft texture.
-
Storage: To keep your Christmas Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within five days.
For more seasonal inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking for tips on holiday baking. Enjoy your festive baking adventure!
Serving suggestions for Christmas Cookie Bars
When it comes to enjoying your Christmas Cookie Bars, the possibilities are delightful! Here are some scrumptious serving suggestions to elevate your festive treat.
-
Warm and Gooey: Microwave a bar for a few seconds just before serving. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that feels like a warm hug.
-
Showcase the Colors: Cut your bars into festive shapes with cookie cutters to make them extra special for holiday gatherings. Think star or Christmas tree shapes!
-
Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or even crushed peppermint candies on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.
-
Serve with a Drink: Pair your bars with a cozy drink like hot chocolate or a spiced apple cider to enhance the festive spirit.
For more festive ideas, check out this article on holiday desserts. Enjoy!
Time Details for Christmas Cookie Bars
Preparation Time
Getting started is a breeze! You'll need just 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the batter. It's the perfect warm-up before the baking fun begins.
Cooking Time
Let those sweet aromas fill your kitchen with a 25-minute baking session. Keep a close eye on them so that they come out perfectly golden and delicious.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll transition from mixing ingredients to indulging in these festive Christmas Cookie Bars. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in, this quick treat is bound to become a holiday favorite!
For more insight on baking times, check out BBC Good Food for tips and tricks. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Cookie Bars
Wondering about the nutritional stats for these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars? Let's take a look!
Calories
Each bar contains approximately 180 calories, making them a sweet treat to enjoy in moderation during the festive season.
Sugar Content
These festive bars have about 12 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the sugars in the M&Ms and the chocolate chips. Perfect for a special occasion but best enjoyed mindfully!
Fats
With around 8 grams of fat, mainly from the unsalted butter, these bars are rich and indulgent. They’re a delightful addition to your holiday baking lineup, but balance with some wholesome snacks throughout the day!
For more in-depth nutritional insights, check resources like USDA FoodData Central to understand more about the ingredients you’re using. Enjoy baking and sharing these festive treats!
FAQs about Christmas Cookie Bars
How do I store leftover cookie bars?
Once you've savored these delicious Christmas Cookie Bars, you might find yourself with a few leftovers. To keep them fresh, simply place the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days. If you’re anything like me, though, they might not last that long!
Can I freeze Christmas Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! If you want to save some for later indulgence, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
What are the best mix-ins for these bars?
While this Christmas Cookie Bars recipe features delightful M&Ms and chocolate chips, feel free to get creative! Some popular mix-ins include nuts, dried fruit, or even crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch. Explore and make these bars uniquely yours!
For more storage tips and tricks, check out this handy guide from Bon Appétit.
Conclusion on Christmas Cookie Bars
In summary, Christmas Cookie Bars make for a delightful holiday treat! Their rich, chocolatey flavor combined with a hint of cinnamon creates a festive atmosphere perfect for gatherings. These easy-to-make bars are ideal for sharing, but don't be surprised if they disappear quickly! Enjoy baking and savoring each gooey bite!
For more holiday inspiration, check out BBC Good Food's Festive Recipes.
Christmas Cookie Bars!
Equipment
- Oven
- 9x9 inch square tin
- parchment paper
- Whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 275 g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 115 g unsalted butter melted
- 55 g granulated sugar
- 135 g light brown sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-ins
- 200 g red/green/brown M&Ms plus a handful for decoration
- 150 g milk chocolate chips
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190C/170C fan and line a 9x9 inch square tin with parchment paper, and leave to the side for now.
- Whisk/Mix the plain flour, bicarbonate, salt, cornflour and cinnamon together so it's evenly distributed – leave to the side.
- In a larger bowl, melt the butter. Add in the two sugars, and whisk for about 2 minutes so the sugar starts to dissolve and the mixture is smooth. Add in the egg and the vanilla, and whisk again briefly until smooth.
- Add in the dry ingredients, all but a handful of the Christmas coloured M&Ms, and the chocolate chips and mix with a spatula until a thick cookie dough is formed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the tin and press in the handful of Christmas M&Ms into the top for decoration. Bake the traybake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top of the cookie bake looks ‘dry’!
- Leave the cookie bake to cool for about 10 minutes, then leave to cool fully on a wire rack. Cut the bake into 4x4 for decent sizes, or 5x5 for smaller ones! Enjoy!
Leave a Reply