Description
Whip up these soft and chewy M&M Cookie Bars loaded with colorful candy and chocolate chips. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet treat anytime!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 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 (choose red, white, and blue mix or any preferred colors)
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Heat your oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 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.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Lightly beat the eggs and mix them into the butter-sugar mixture along with the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate 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, to form a thick cookie dough.
- Add M&Ms and Chocolate Chips:
- Fold in the chocolate chips and 1 cup of M&Ms until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread Dough:
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet using a spatula or your hands.
- Decorate with M&Ms:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of M&Ms over the top for a colorful finish.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set but slightly firm to the touch.
- Cool and Cut:
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set. Once cooled, cut them into 36 even pieces and serve.
Notes
- For a festive twist, use seasonal M&Ms (e.g., red and green for Christmas or pastel for Easter).
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- For extra gooeyness, underbake slightly, allowing the center to be softer.