Christmas Bars: 5 Irresistibly Cozy Festive Treats

Name: Christmas Bars: 5 Irresistibly Cozy Festive Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted the magic of *Christmas bars*? These festive treats are like a cozy hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing (or not, I won’t judge!). I can still remember the first time I made them—my whole house smelled like sweet, melted chocolate and toasted coconut, and I couldn’t wait to share them with my family. They disappeared faster than I could say “Merry Christmas!” What I love most about these bars is how easy they are to whip up, making them a go-to during the busy holiday season. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re a holiday staple in my kitchen!

Ingredients List

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (your choice!)
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

(Tip: Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results. You can also use packed ingredients where specified to ensure that heavenly texture!)

How to Prepare Christmas Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your *Christmas bars* bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. Trust me, waiting a few minutes is worth it for that delightful finish!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and the unsweetened shredded coconut. I love the tropical vibe the coconut brings! Mix them well until they’re nicely blended. Now, take this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish—this forms the delicious crust. You want it compact, so don’t be shy about using your hands or the back of a spoon to really pack it down!

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Now, it’s time to get those layers going! Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over your crust, spreading it out with a spatula. Next, sprinkle the chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and maraschino cherries on top. I love the pop of color from the cherries! Make sure to distribute everything evenly so each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pop your baking dish into the oven and let those bars bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They’re ready when they’re golden brown on the edges and the center looks set. You might catch a whiff of that heavenly aroma—it’s a good sign!

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into bars. This is the hardest part—I know, the smell is tempting! Once cool, slice them into squares and store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

FAQ Section

**Can I freeze christmas bars?**

Absolutely! You can freeze your *Christmas bars* for up to three months. Just make sure they’re completely cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight!

What can I use instead of nuts?

If you have nut allergies or prefer to skip them, no worries! You can substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or even add extra chocolate chips or dried fruits for that sweet crunch. Get creative!

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

You’ll know your *Christmas bars* are done when the edges are golden brown and the center appears set, not jiggly. A little bit of a soft touch in the middle is okay; they’ll firm up as they cool!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Decadent layers of chocolate, coconut, and cherries that create a flavor explosion in every bite!
Great for sharing at parties or family gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Adaptable to suit your taste—swap out nuts or add your favorite toppings.
They look festive and inviting, making them a beautiful addition to any dessert table.
Leftovers (if there are any!) store well and can be frozen for future indulgence.

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to make sure your *Christmas bars* turn out perfectly every time!

Don’t skip the greasing! It’s crucial to grease your baking dish well; this helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cutting. You can use butter or cooking spray—whatever you have on hand!
Pack it down! When pressing the crust mixture into the dish, really pack it down firmly. This creates a sturdy base that holds everything together, so your bars don’t crumble when you cut them.
Watch the baking time! Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. If the edges are golden brown but the center still looks a bit soft, that’s okay! They’ll firm up as they cool.
Cool completely! Allow your bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. If you cut them too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is key here—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Experiment with flavors! Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Try adding different types of chocolate or even some crushed peppermint for a holiday twist!

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your *Christmas bars* are a hit every holiday season! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, for a typical serving size of one *Christmas bar*, you can expect around 200 calories, with 15g of sugar and 10g of fat. These festive treats are indulgent, so enjoy them in moderation as part of your holiday celebrations!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your *Christmas bars* fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge. No reheating needed—just enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!