Christmas Cookie Bars

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The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without something sweet baking in the oven, and these Christmas Cookie Bars bring all the festive cheer you could ask for. They’re soft, chewy, buttery, and loaded with seasonal color and flavor. Imagine a sugar cookie and a blondie got together and dressed up in red and green — that’s exactly what you get with every bite.

Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or leaving out for Santa, these bars are a breeze to make. You don’t need cookie cutters or complicated decorating skills, just one pan and a handful of pantry staples. They bake into golden perfection with a hint of vanilla and that classic sugar cookie crunch on top. Get ready to fall in love.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cookie Bars Recipe

These bars strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy with just a slight crisp at the edge. The sprinkles melt slightly into the dough, giving pops of sweetness throughout. They cut cleanly for sharing and stacking, and they hold their shape beautifully on dessert trays. Best of all, they’re super customizable — you can swap in different sprinkle colors, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed peppermint for a wintery twist.

Can I Use Any Kind of Sprinkles?

Yes, but some work better than others. Jimmies (the rod-shaped sprinkles) are best for mixing into batter because they don’t melt too much or bleed color. Nonpareils tend to bleed into the dough and change the color of the bars, which can still be fun but might look messier. Feel free to add a few on top before baking for that classic Christmas sparkle.

Ingredients for the Christmas Cookie Bars

These cookie bars come together with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a role in giving you that signature chewy-soft texture and festive flair.

Unsalted butter – Softened butter gives the base its rich flavor and tender crumb. Room temperature is key for smooth creaming.

Granulated sugar – Classic white sugar adds sweetness and that crisp cookie edge.

Egg – The egg binds everything together and helps with structure and chew.

Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and a bakery-style finish.

All-purpose flour – The foundation of the bars. It provides structure while keeping them soft.

Baking powder – Gives the bars a little lift and lightness.

Salt – Balances out the sweetness and brings out the flavors.

Christmas sprinkles – Adds color, crunch, and holiday charm.

How To Make the Christmas Cookie Bars

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and silky.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until no streaks remain.

Step 4: Fold in the Sprinkles

Gently fold in the sprinkles using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix so the color doesn’t bleed.

Step 5: Press and Bake

Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. Add a few extra sprinkles on top if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into squares. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

How to Store and Serve Christmas Cookie Bars

These festive bars are perfect for making ahead. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully — just wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temp or give them a few seconds in the microwave.

This recipe makes about 16 squares, depending on how you slice them. They’re perfect for sharing or gifting in little cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

What to Serve With Christmas Cookie Bars?

Hot Chocolate

The gooey sweetness of the bars pairs so nicely with a rich, warm mug of cocoa.

Peppermint Mocha

Add a festive sip that complements the sugar and vanilla flavors of the bars.

Eggnog

A chilled glass of eggnog balances the buttery warmth of the bars beautifully.

Coffee or Espresso

For those who like their sweets with a bold sip on the side, coffee is a classic match.

Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream or Cool Whip on the side for a little extra indulgence.

Ice Cream

Vanilla or peppermint ice cream turns these cookie bars into a show-stopping dessert plate.

Fresh Berries

For a light contrast, serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side.

Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you love these Christmas cookie bars, you might also enjoy some of these festive creations:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich, sticky treat that melts in your mouth.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars if you have extra sweets around after the holidays.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy coconut bite with a fruity twist.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler when you’re craving warm fruit and crust in one bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add white chocolate chips or try crushed candy canes on top? I’m always excited to see your creations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and delicious holiday treats on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for the season.

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