Dive into the world of sweet and colorful M&M Cookie Bars, the perfect treat for any party or snack time. These bars combine the classic cookie dough filled with vibrant M&M candies, offering a delightful crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, a family gathering, or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these cookie bars are sure to brighten everyone’s day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup M&M’s (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Fold in 1 cup of M&M’s and any other mix-ins.
- Spread dough evenly in prepared pan. Sprinkle additional M&M’s on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool in pan on a wire rack before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Tips
- Use seasonal M&M’s for a festive twist.
- For thicker bars, use an 8×8 inch pan and adjust baking time as needed.
- Can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Q: Can I substitute the M&M’s with other types of candy? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap the M&M’s with any candy of your choice. Just make sure the pieces are not too large to ensure even baking.
Q: How can I ensure my cookie bars are soft and chewy? A: Avoid overbaking the bars. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just beginning to turn golden, and the center is set but still soft.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Conclusion
M&M Cookie Bars are a delicious, eye-catching treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. They offer a wonderful blend of textures from the creamy cookie base to the crunchy candy pieces, making them a hit for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats at your next event or family gathering, and watch them disappear from the plate!