Go Back
christmas cookie bars

Christmas Cookie Bars – Soft, Chewy, and Loaded with Holiday Magic

These Christmas Cookie Bars are buttery, festive, and packed with gooey chocolate chips and holiday M&Ms. They’re the easiest way to make a big batch of Christmas cookies without rolling or scooping. Perfect for parties, gifting, and holiday dessert tables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup holiday M&Ms
  • Optional: red and green sprinkles

Method
 

Prep the Pan
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Batter
  1. Stir together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Whisk in egg and vanilla.
  2. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips and M&Ms.
Bake
  1. Spread batter into the pan and top with extra M&Ms or sprinkles.
  2. Bake 22–25 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Slice
  1. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

Festive twist: Add white chocolate chips or crushed candy canes.
Soft bars: Don’t overbake; they firm up as they cool.
Doubling: Bake in a 9x13 pan for 28–30 minutes.