As the holiday season rolls around, the kitchen transforms into a warm sanctuary filled with the delightful aroma of baking treats. The rich scent of melted butter and brown sugar mingles with the sweet notes of vanilla and chocolate, wrapping you in the comforting embrace of nostalgia. I can’t help but smile at the thought of my Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars, a recipe so easy that even Santa might be tempted to stop by my house early for a taste!
These gooey, festive bars are the ultimate solution for anyone who’s craving a homemade treat without the fuss. They’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or simply indulging in while sitting by the fire. With just a handful of ingredients, including chocolate chips and vibrant sprinkles, you’ll whip up a batch in no time—just 45 minutes total!
So, whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, let’s dive into this sweet holiday adventure. You’re just moments away from creating a dessert that brings everyone together!
Why are these Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars irresistible?
Quick to make: You can whip up these bars in under an hour, making them a perfect last-minute treat for any holiday occasion.
Loaded with flavor: Each bite bursts with rich chocolate and festive sprinkles, creating a cheerful explosion of taste.
Crowd pleaser: These bars are ideal for holiday potlucks or family gatherings; everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Easy to customize: Feel free to add nuts, different candies, or even a dash of peppermint for a unique twist.
Warm, gooey goodness: The combination of melted chocolate with a chewy texture makes for the ultimate comfort dessert!
If you’re craving more sweet ideas, check out my easy holiday cookie recipes!
Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these tasty treats!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – sifted for a lighter texture
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – use room temperature for best results
- 1 cup brown sugar – packed for extra moisture and flavor
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – white sugar adds a lovely crispness
- 2 large eggs – room temperature for better blending
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – leavening agent for chewy bars
- 1 cup chocolate chips – semi-sweet or dark for richness
- 1 cup festive sprinkles – bring in the holiday cheer!
These Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars are sure to warm your heart and home!
How to Make Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is vital for ensuring even baking and achieving that perfect golden edge.
Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth. This process should take about 2-3 minutes and create a light, fluffy mixture.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, blending well until everything is thoroughly combined. The batter should take on a glossy texture as you mix.
Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is key for a perfect rise.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Fold in the chocolate chips and festive sprinkles gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter. You’ll want to see those colorful sprinkles peeking out.
Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan, ensuring a smooth surface for even baking. A spatula works wonders for this!
Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This is where the gooey magic happens!
Cool the bars in the pan before cutting into squares. Allowing them to cool for about 10-15 minutes will help them set up nicely.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will ensure they stay soft and gooey for your enjoyment.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the bars in the fridge in an airtight container. They will last up to 1 week, and the coolness enhances their chewy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore that gooey goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars are an absolute delight for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and the texture just right. For even longer storage, consider freezing the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to bake, simply spread the chilled dough into your greased baking pan and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have freshly baked bars that are just as gooey and delicious without all the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars?
These delightful squares are a festive treat that can transform any gathering into a joyful celebration.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess melts into the warm bars, enhancing their richness with a heavenly contrast. Nothing beats the classic combo of warm and cold!
Hot Cocoa: A cozy mug of hot cocoa wraps you in warmth and chocolatey goodness, making these bars feel even more indulgent during chilly nights. It’s a joyful pairing that evokes nostalgia.
Peppermint Bark: This minty treat adds a crunchy and festive twist, with the cool peppermint perfectly balancing the bar’s chocolatey sweetness. A festive platter with both treats will dazzle your guests.
Whipped Cream: Dollop a fluffy layer of freshly whipped cream on top for added lightness, enhancing the bars’ gooey goodness while providing a delightful contrast in texture.
Christmas Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing brightness to the table. The natural sweetness complements the richness of the bars beautifully while adding a splash of color.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink pairs perfectly with these bars, creating a rich and indulgent experience. The creamy, spiced flavors of eggnog make every bite feel festive.
Enjoy exploring these delightful pairings that truly elevate your holiday dessert experience!
Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to mix things up and indulge in a flavor journey with these delightful twists!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these bars while staying gluten-free. Just make sure the blend has xanthan gum for the best texture.
Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the chocolate!
Minty Fresh: Swap in mint chocolate chips for a refreshing holiday twist. A hint of peppermint extract can also make it even more festive!
Fruitful Bars: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tart contrast. Not only do they add flavor, but they also make the bars look beautiful!
Cookie Crumble: Drizzle some cookie butter over the top before baking for an extra layer of indulgence. It creates a rich, gooey finish that you’ll love.
Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming spice. It will surprise your taste buds in the best way possible!
White Chocolate Bliss: Mix in white chocolate chips along with or instead of the regular chocolate for a creamy, sweet twist that’s hard to resist.
Boozy Bars: Fold in a splash of flavored liqueur, like Irish cream or rum, for an adult version that’s perfect for holiday parties. Just remember to keep it moderate!
Expert Tips for Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars
Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps create a creamy texture and ensures even mixing.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of soft, gooey goodness.
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so check your baking bars a few minutes early. You want that perfect golden edge without overbaking.
Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for good-quality chocolate chips to elevate the flavor of your Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars. They make a world of difference!
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool for at least 10-15 minutes in the pan; this will help them set perfectly and avoid crumbling when you cut them.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them chewy.
Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh enough?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, room temperature eggs and soft butter. Look for butter that is easily spreadable but not melted. When choosing flour, check for any signs of moisture or bugs—fresh flour means fresh baked goods. Always pick chocolate chips that are in-date and free of any chalky residue.
How should I store my Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars?
I recommend keeping your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their gooey texture. If you’re concerned about them lasting longer, simply pop them in the fridge, and they’ll stay delicious for up to a week!
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Very! To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a labeled freezer-safe bag. Your Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars will keep nicely for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy them later without any hassle.
What should I do if my bars are too dry or crumbly?
If your bars turn out dry, this could be due to overbaking or too much flour. Next time, try reducing the flour by a couple of tablespoons, and always watch for that golden edge—your bars should still be moist in the center! If they are overbaked this time around, consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzling them with melted chocolate to enhance moisture and flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for these bars?
It’s important to note that this recipe contains gluten and dairy, so if you need a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. For dairy-free options, try using vegan butter and non-dairy chocolate chips. Always ensure that if serving to others, you check for any allergies to nuts or other ingredients!
What’s the best way to ensure my cookies bake evenly?
To achieve perfectly baked Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars, make sure to use a quality baking pan and preheat your oven adequately. If you’re concerned about uneven baking, consider rotating the pan halfway through the cook time. By following the step-by-step instructions and keeping an eye on the time, you can create bars that are delectably gooey in the middle and perfectly golden on the edges!
Irresistibly Gooey Christmas Cookie Bars for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, blending well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and festive sprinkles gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the bars in the pan before cutting into squares for about 10-15 minutes.