Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect festive treat for the holiday season. They combine the delightful flavors of traditional Christmas cookies into one convenient, easy-to-make bar. These cookie bars are chewy, rich, and incredibly flavorful, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. With the festive combination of chocolate chips, nuts, and seasonal spices, they evoke the warmth and cheer of Christmas gatherings, holiday parties, and family get-togethers. The sweet aroma of baking cookie bars wafts through the house, filling hearts with joy and nostalgia. Whether packed into gift boxes or enjoyed around the Christmas tree, these cookie bars are sure to add a sprinkle of cheer to your holiday celebration.

Ingredients about Christmas Cookie Bars

List of Ingredients with Measurements

To whip up a delicious batch of Christmas Cookie Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for a holiday twist)

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily customize your Christmas Cookie Bars with alternative ingredients. Here are a few substitutions you can consider:

• For gluten-free bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Replace butter with coconut oil to make a dairy-free version.
• Use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown and granulated sugar for a healthier option.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with additional chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, measure out 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon if you’re using it. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt, ensuring a uniform texture in your cookie bars.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and continue to mix until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookie bars. Once the dough is formed, gently fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped nuts if desired. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Bake the Cookie Bars

Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform baking. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once removed from the oven, let the cookie bars cool in the baking dish for about 15-20 minutes. While they are cooling, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, making it easier to serve later. Let the bars cool completely before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cookie Bars

Christmas Cookie Bars make a delightful dessert for holiday gatherings or even as a special treat for Christmas morning. For an attractive presentation, serve them on a festive platter, and consider dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate over the tops just before serving.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Serve these cookie bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert. You can also pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage, such as spiced cider or eggnog. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the bars or in the drink can enhance the festive mood.

How to Store Christmas Cookie Bars

Proper Storage Methods

To store your Christmas Cookie Bars, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can layer the bars with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Store them in a cool, dry place for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

If you’re reheating the bars, microwave them for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy a warm, gooey texture. If freezing, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These bars can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or allow them to sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Tips to Make Christmas Cookie Bars

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making cookie bars is overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients. This can lead to dense bars instead of the desired chewy texture. Make sure to mix gently until just combined. Additionally, underbaking the bars can result in a doughy center. Keep an eye on them while baking and remember they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

For the best results, use room-temperature butter and eggs to ensure they blend well. An easy way to soften butter quickly is to cut it into small cubes and leave it out for about 15-20 minutes. Also, consider chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking for thicker bars with a chewy center. This step can also help to prevent spreading.

Variation of Christmas Cookie Bars

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

To switch things up, you can experiment with different types of chocolate. Try white chocolate chips for a festive look or dark chocolate for a richer flavor. You can also fold in dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, for a sweet and tart contrast.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

If you’re looking to make the bars healthier, consider reducing the sugar by half or using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. To make vegan cookie bars, replace the eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil instead of butter.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cookie bars aren’t rising properly, double-check that your baking soda is fresh and not expired. If they are too dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly using the spoon and level method rather than scooping directly from the bag.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Christmas Cookie Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you are making them further in advance, consider freezing them as mentioned above, and thaw them before serving.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

For the flour, you can use a gluten-free blend. Brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar, but it may slightly alter the taste and texture. If you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a quarter. For a dairy-free option, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Christmas Cookie Bars. They’re a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season, bringing joy and sweetness to every bite!

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