Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a festive treat that simply encapsulates the joy of the holiday season, then look no further than the Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe. These bars bring together the ultimate combination of a soft, tender crumb and a delightful chewy texture, packed full of gooey chocolate chips, the crunch of nuts, and the sparkle of festive sprinkles. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family gathering, a holiday cookie exchange, or just a sweet indulgence on a winter evening, these cookie bars are your new go-to dessert for delivering that perfect bite every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe comes from a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver the rich flavors and perfect textures. Each component plays its part, from the creamy butter lending moisture and richness to the all-purpose flour providing structure. Chocolate chips bring that melty sweetness, and festive sprinkles add a joyful pop of color perfect for celebrations.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter cremates easily with sugars for a tender texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp exterior.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Provides moisture and a lovely caramel-like depth.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with warm aromatics.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a gentle lift for softness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with acids to promote tenderness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 2 cups chocolate chips: Melts throughout for gooey pockets of chocolate.
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1/2 cup festive sprinkles (for decoration): Instantly festive and fun for presentation.

How to Make Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift out the bars later so you can cut them neatly.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to blend smoothly with the wet components.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter with both the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This step is key for creating that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture in every bite.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated to provide a smooth, homogenous batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring just until you no longer see flour. Overmixing here can toughen the cookie bars, so gentle folding is best.

Step 6: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Carefully fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using), spreading them evenly to ensure each bar delivers a burst of flavor and texture.

Step 7: Spread Batter and Bake

Spread the dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the pan to cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan, then let it cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles.

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of festive sprinkles over the warm bars right after baking for an extra pop of holiday cheer. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle melted white chocolate for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookie bars with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or even your favorite holiday coffee blend. The creamy drinks complement the chewy texture perfectly, turning snack time into a cozy celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a festive platter lined with holiday-themed napkins. For gifting, stack them in a decorative box or wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with twine for a homemade touch that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and delicious for up to a week. Make sure they cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They keep well in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this holiday favorite anytime.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen bars, thaw them at room temperature. For a freshly baked feel, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or microwave briefly in 15-second increments until soft and chewy again.

FAQs

Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, try swapping the nuts for dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or even extra chocolate chips. The texture will vary slightly, but the bars will remain delicious.

Are these cookie bars gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free as written. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend to make a version suitable for gluten sensitivities, though texture may differ slightly.

How do I ensure the bars are soft and chewy?

The key is not to overmix the batter and to bake until just done—look for a clean toothpick with a few moist crumbs. Also, using both granulated and brown sugar helps add moisture and chewiness.

Can I make these bars in advance for a party?

Yes! These cookie bars are perfect to make ahead. Bake a day or two before your event and store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them and thaw the day before serving for maximum freshness.

What festive sprinkles work best?

Any holiday-themed sprinkles will do! Red and green jimmies, nonpareils, or even snowflake-shaped sprinkles add a festive touch that makes these bars feel extra special.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something magical about sharing a homemade treat that feels warm, comforting, and festive all at once. This Soft & Chewy Christmas Cookie Bars (Holiday Favorite!) Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with the sweet aromas of the holidays. Whether baked for family, friends, or a cheerful gathering, these bars bring smiles and joy with every chewy bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this cozy classic to your holiday repertoire!

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