Christmas Cookie Bars are a festive and delicious treat that combines the flavors of classic chocolate chip cookies into an easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special dessert for the season, these bars are full of sweetness, chocolate chips, and optional nuts, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these indulgent treats in no time.

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 bars

Variations

Add More Holiday Flavors: Incorporate seasonal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a festive twist.
Dried Fruit: Add dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries for a fruity touch.
Nut Variations: Try adding walnuts, pecans, or almonds instead of (or in addition to) your usual choice of nuts.
White Chocolate: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or a combination of both for a sweet contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These bars freeze well. Once cooled, cut them into squares and store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, soft treat.

10 FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
How do I know when the bars are done baking? The edges will be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I omit the nuts? Yes, the bars will still be delicious without the nuts. You can also replace them with more chocolate chips if you prefer.
How do I cut the bars evenly? Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. Use a sharp knife to cut clean squares.
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet? Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, you can make these cookie bars a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What should I do if the dough is too thick to spread in the pan? If the dough is too thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds or use a spatula to gently spread it into the pan.
How do I store leftover cookie bars? Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Use a bigger pan or bake in two separate pans.

Conclusion

Christmas Cookie Bars are the perfect holiday treat, combining the irresistible flavors of chocolate chip cookies into an easy, shareable form. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a simple dessert to enjoy with family, these cookie bars are sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. With their rich flavor, chewy texture, and festive appeal, they’ll quickly become a holiday favorite in your home.