Christmas Bars
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 24
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 95mg
Why Make This Christmas Bars
Christmas Bars are the perfect festive treat to brighten up any holiday gathering. With their rich, buttery base adorned with gooey chocolate chips and optional colorful holiday-themed M&M’s, these bars are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Their soft, chewy texture combined with a light crust makes them a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a family get-together, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars will surely spread cheer and joy.
How to Make Christmas Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup holiday-themed M&M’s (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your bars come out easily and don’t stick to the pan, guaranteeing a perfect slice every time!
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the sugars are fully incorporated into the butter, forming a smooth mixture. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is wonderfully blended together.
Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser bars.
Step 4: Adding the Goodies
Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s if you’re using them. These colorful candies will make your bars festive and fun, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness with every bite.
Step 5: Spreading and Baking
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to help smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars should have a lightly golden top.
Step 6: Cooling and Slicing
Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will make cutting easier and help them hold their shape. Enjoy these delicious bites of joy!
How to Serve Christmas Bars
Serve these Christmas Bars on a decorative platter, perhaps alongside some hot cocoa or a festive eggnog. They make an inviting addition to any dessert table and can also be packaged as a thoughtful homemade gift. If you want to add a special touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple chocolate glaze.
How to Store Christmas Bars
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Bars
- Ensure your butter is completely melted but not hot to prevent the eggs from cooking when added.
- Sift the flour before measuring to avoid dense bars.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips like dark chocolate or white chocolate for variety.
- Let the bars cool completely for easier cutting; warm bars tend to crumble more.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Christmas Bars: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Dried Fruit Delight: Mix in some dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a fruity twist.
- Holiday Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the texture and taste will differ slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor. -
How do I know when the bars are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, they need more time. -
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum for binding. -
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive peppermint flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. -
How can I make these bars more visually appealing?
Top with a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars before slicing.
Conclusion
Christmas Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season with their rich flavors and fun, festive appearance. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and dive into the wonderful world of baking these scrumptious bars! Happy Holidays!
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Christmas Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful festive treats with a rich, buttery base and gooey chocolate chips, perfect for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup holiday-themed M&M’s (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, folding gently until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
For variations, consider adding nuts or dried fruit. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
