M&M Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert treat, combining buttery cookie dough with chocolate chips and colorful M&Ms in every bite. These bars are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for parties, bake sales, or any time you crave a fun and delicious sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make and bake in a single pan.
• Packed with chocolate chips and colorful M&Ms for maximum sweetness.
• A kid-friendly favorite that’s perfect for holidays or special occasions.
• Great for sharing at parties or as a grab-and-go snack.
• Versatile recipe—customize with your favorite candies or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups M&Ms (Red, white, and blue mix, or other colors)
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the sides for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Lightly beat the eggs, then add them along with the vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well after each addition, until a thick cookie dough forms.

Step 5: Add Chocolate and M&Ms

Fold in the chocolate chips and 1 cup of the M&Ms, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Spread the Dough

Spread the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to press it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cup of M&Ms on top for a colorful finish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. This step helps them set and makes cutting easier. Once cooled, slice into 36 even pieces and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 36 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 37 minutes

Variations

• Holiday-Themed Bars: Use seasonal M&Ms for Christmas, Halloween, or other holidays.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Swap some of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips.
• Oatmeal Cookie Bars: Substitute 1 cup of flour with 1 cup of rolled oats for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these bars gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

2. What size pan should I use?

A rimmed baking sheet, approximately 9×13 inches, works best for these cookie bars.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake them the day before and store in an airtight container. They stay fresh for several days.

4. What if I don’t have an electric mixer?

You can cream the butter and sugar by hand using a sturdy whisk or wooden spoon, but it will require more effort.

5. Can I add other candies besides M&Ms?

Yes, try adding Reese’s Pieces, mini marshmallows, or crushed candy canes for variety.

6. How do I ensure even baking?

Spread the dough evenly in the pan and rotate it halfway through baking to promote even cooking.

7. Can I freeze the dough instead of baking immediately?

Yes, you can freeze the dough in the pan for up to 1 month. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

8. How can I make these bars chewier?

Use an extra tablespoon of brown sugar for a softer, chewier texture.

9. Can I use dark chocolate chips?

Yes, dark chocolate chips add a richer flavor and balance the sweetness of the M&Ms.

10. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

Let them cool completely in the pan, then use a sharp knife to slice them into squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Conclusion

M&M Cookie Bars are a delightful combination of chewy cookie dough, melty chocolate, and vibrant candy-coated chocolates. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to impress. Bake a batch today and watch them disappear—they’re a treat everyone will love!

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