Santa’s Cookie Bars

Creating the perfect batch of Santa’s Cookie Bars is one of those delightful holiday experiences that brings joy to the kitchen. Picture this: a warm, buttery base layered with crunchy Oreos, melted chocolate chips, and festive M&M’s dancing across the top. Trust me; these bars are a showstopper! Kids and adults alike will appreciate every bite, which is why they make an appearance at every festive gathering. If you’re looking to impress during cookie season, or perhaps bring a treat to an office party, these cookie bars will definitely do the trick. With such a simple process, you’ll have these cookie bars baking in no time, filling your home with the sweetest scents of the holiday.

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Why This Recipe Works

Creating the perfect Santa’s Cookie Bars involves a blend of classic holiday flavors and textures that come together harmoniously. The combination of soft, chewy dough infused with chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, and festive M&M’s makes each bite a delightful experience. These cookie bars are not only rich and buttery but also feature a unique surprise layer of whole Oreos that takes them to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Santa’s Cookie Bars

You’ll love these Santa’s Cookie Bars because they embody the spirit of the holidays. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and bring a sense of nostalgia that neither adults nor kids can resist. Plus, they are an excellent addition to cookie trays or holiday gatherings, igniting joy with every single bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup crushed Christmas Oreos
• 9 whole Christmas Oreos for layering
• ¼ cup Christmas M&M’s

How to Make Santa’s Cookie Bars

Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing a little overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out later.

Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars dense.

Fold in Festive Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, M&M’s, and crushed Oreos, reserving a handful of each for the top decoration.

Layer the Dough and Cookies

Press about ⅓ of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Arrange the nine whole Oreos in a single layer across the dough.

Top with Remaining Dough

Spread the remaining cookie dough gently on top, pressing it out evenly to cover the Oreos completely.

Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the reserved crushed Oreos and M&M’s over the top for a festive and colorful finish.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are ideal).

Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Santa’s Cookie Bars with a warm mug of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk to enhance the holiday spirit. You can also serve them alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming.
• Don’t overbake to maintain the chewy texture.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Variations

• Substitute the Christmas M&M’s with peanut butter M&M’s for a different flavor profile.
• Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Experiment with different types of Oreos based on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookie bars in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie bars a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

2. How do I store the leftover bars?
Keep the leftover bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

3. Can I freeze Santa’s Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor that enhances the cookie bars.

5. How can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookie bars gluten-free without compromising texture.

These Santa’s Cookie Bars are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking rotation. With a delightful combination of flavors and textures, they embody the spirit of the season, making them perfect for any festive occasion. Each bite promises to bring joy and comfort, reminding you of the special moments of the holidays. Enjoy sharing them with your loved ones, and watch as they become a cherished tradition in your home.

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