Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat this Valentine’s Day with these irresistible M&M’s Cookie Bars! Soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful M&M’s and creamy white chocolate, these bars are the perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care. They’re not only fun to make, but they also fill your kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma that’s sure to create lasting memories. Gather your loved ones around and get baking—these bars are perfect for sharing and will steal the hearts of everyone who tries them!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup M&M’s, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the rich vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix—just combine until you see no more flour.
- Gently fold in the vibrant M&M’s and creamy white chocolate chips, saving a handful of M&M’s to sprinkle on top later for that extra flair.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved M&M’s over the top of the cookie dough for a cheerful finishing touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cookie bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing them into squares to ensure they hold their shape nicely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just after baking for a delightful sweet and salty contrast. You can also customize these bars by using seasonal M&M’s or incorporating your favorite nuts for added texture!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugars, take your time to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving a wonderfully soft and chewy cookie bar. Also, be cautious not to overbake; a slightly underbaked center will produce the best texture!
FAQ
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookie bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re perfect for an easy dessert option when hosting or for gifts!
How should I store leftovers?
Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them well!
Conclusion
These M&M’s Cookie Bars are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home, not just for Valentine’s Day but any time you want to spread a little sweetness. With a blend of fun colors and delicious flavors, everyone will be asking for seconds! Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these delightful treats with your friends and family!