Christmas Cookie Bars: 7 Festive Flavors to Savor

Name: Christmas Cookie Bars: 7 Festive Flavors to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 1/2 cup dried cranberries

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, the joy of festive baking! There’s something so magical about the aroma of cookies wafting through the house during the holiday season, and these *Christmas cookie bars* are the epitome of that cozy feeling. I remember the first time I made them; my kitchen was a flurry of flour and excitement, and my family couldn’t wait to dive into the warm, gooey goodness. These bars are not just easy to whip up, but they also come packed with all the festive flavors we love—think chocolate, nuts, and tart cranberries. Trust me, they’re bound to become a holiday tradition in your home just like they are in mine!

Ingredients for Christmas Cookie Bars

Gather these festive ingredients to create your delicious *Christmas cookie bars*. Make sure your butter is softened so it blends perfectly into the batter!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (your choice!)
1/2 cup dried cranberries

These ingredients come together to create a sweet, chewy treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!).

How to Prepare Christmas Cookie Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—baking these delightful *Christmas cookie bars*! I promise you, it’s simpler than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious holiday treat in no time!

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want your bars to bake evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but a good ol’ wooden spoon works too!
Next, crack in those two large eggs and add the vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined—this is where the magic starts to happen!
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder so your bars rise perfectly.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently. Don’t overdo it—just mix until everything is combined. A few flour streaks are okay!
Now it’s time for the fun add-ins! Fold in the chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries. You can really play with this part, so feel free to adjust based on your preferences!
Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan. Make sure to smooth it out with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean (or with a few crumbs, but not wet batter!).
Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This makes them easier to cut. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into bars.

And there you have it! Simple, fun, and oh-so-rewarding. Enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen, and get ready to share these treats with your loved ones (or keep them all for yourself—no one’s judging!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to make: These *Christmas cookie bars* come together in just about 45 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute holiday treat!
Festive flavors: With chocolate, nuts, and cranberries, each bite is bursting with the flavors of the season!
Easy to customize: Feel free to switch up the nuts or chocolate types—make them your own!
Great for sharing: Cut them into bars and share with friends, family, or neighbors; they’re bound to spread holiday cheer!
Perfect holiday treat: Whether for a holiday party or cozy nights at home, these bars are a delightful addition to any festive gathering!

Equipment Needed

Before you get started on your scrumptious *Christmas cookie bars*, let’s make sure you have all the right tools on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing bowls: A couple of different sizes will do; one for wet ingredients and another for dry.
Baking pan: A 9×13 inch greased baking pan works perfectly for these bars.
Electric mixer: While you can use a wooden spoon, an electric mixer makes creaming the butter and sugars a breeze!
Measuring cups: You’ll need both dry and liquid measuring cups to get those ingredient quantities just right.
Measuring spoons: These are essential for adding spices and extracts accurately.
Spatula: A spatula is great for spreading the batter evenly in the pan and for folding in those yummy add-ins!
Wire rack: If you have one, it’s perfect for cooling your cookie bars evenly after baking.

With these tools ready to go, you’re all set to whip up some holiday magic in your kitchen! Let’s bake!

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Christmas cookie bars* turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I always keep in mind when baking. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your bars to the next level!

Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together smoothly for that lovely texture we all crave!
Don’t overmix: When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, and nobody wants that!
Check your oven temperature: Ovens can be sneaky! If you find that your bars are browning too quickly or not baking evenly, consider using an oven thermometer to make sure your temperature is accurate.
Use parchment paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it a breeze to lift the bars out after baking. Plus, it helps prevent sticking!
Cooling is key: Let your bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes cutting easier!
Timing is everything: Keep an eye on your bars towards the end of the baking time. Every oven is different, so check for that golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean.
Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to play around with the mix-ins! Different nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top can take these bars to a whole new level.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create delicious, mouthwatering *Christmas cookie bars* that will impress everyone at your holiday gatherings! Happy baking!

Variations on Christmas Cookie Bars

The beauty of these *Christmas cookie bars* is that they’re incredibly versatile! You can easily switch things up to keep them exciting throughout the holiday season. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Nutty delight: Swap out the nuts for your favorites—try pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a different crunch!
Spiced up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that screams holiday cheer.
Chocolate swap: If you’re a white chocolate lover, substitute the regular chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
Fruit fusion: Dried cherries or apricots can replace cranberries for a chewier texture and a different fruity flavor.
Peanut butter twist: Mix in some creamy or chunky peanut butter for a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and cranberries.
Minty fresh: Add a half teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor, or sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking for an extra festive touch!
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these bars gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them!

With these variations, you can create a whole array of delicious *Christmas cookie bars* that cater to everyone’s tastes. Get creative and let your holiday spirit shine through in every batch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve indulged in those delightful *Christmas cookie bars* (or if you’re just being smart and saving some for later), it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty! Here’s how I do it:

Airtight container: Store your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their chewy texture and prevent them from drying out. If you have a lot left, you can layer them with parchment paper between the bars to keep them from sticking together.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can pop them in the fridge. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying again for the best flavor and texture!
Freezing: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready for a treat, just take one out and let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

Now, if you find yourself craving a warm bar (because who doesn’t love that melty chocolate goodness?), here’s how to reheat them:

Microwave: Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating. You want it warm, not hot!
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bars in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for about 5-10 minutes. This method brings back that fresh-baked warmth!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your *Christmas cookie bars* anytime the craving strikes! Happy snacking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to indulging in these delightful *Christmas cookie bars*, it’s always nice to know what you’re treating yourself to! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data per bar, so you can enjoy every bite with a little insight:

Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements. Regardless, knowing the numbers can help you enjoy these festive treats just a bit more, especially during the holiday hustle and bustle! Now, let’s get back to baking and celebrating!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these *Christmas cookie bars* ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking. Or, you can bake them ahead of time and store the bars as described earlier!

How do I know when my bars are done?
Keep an eye on them as they bake. You’ll want them to be golden brown on the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, give them a few more minutes in the oven!

Can I use different add-ins?
Of course! That’s one of the best parts about these *Christmas cookie bars*! Feel free to swap in different nuts, use white chocolate chips, or toss in some festive sprinkles. Get creative with what you have on hand!

What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars are crumbly, it might be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. Make sure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately and check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make gluten-free *Christmas cookie bars* by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has a good binding agent, like xanthan gum, for the best texture!

How long do these cookie bars last?
If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they should stay fresh for about a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze them as mentioned earlier! Perfect for holiday emergencies!

Can I add more chocolate chips?
You bet! If you’re a chocolate lover like me, feel free to add more chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that too many might affect the texture, so adjust accordingly!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.