Christmas Bar Cookies Recipe

What kind of recipe is it?

Christmas Bar Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the festive spirit of the holiday season.

These easy-to-make, cookie-like bars are characterized by their rich, buttery texture and are typically loaded with seasonal flavors such as spices, chocolate, and nuts.

They’re perfect for gatherings, gifting, or simply indulging in at home.

This recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels looking to create a festive dessert that everyone will love, making it a must-try for Christmas celebrations!

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	1 cup (packed)
Unsalted butter	1 cup (2 sticks)
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons
Baking powder	1 teaspoon
Baking soda	1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1 cup
Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)	1 cup
Dried cranberries or raisins	1 cup
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)	As needed

These ingredients combine to create deliciously rich and festive Christmas Bar Cookies that will be a hit at any holiday gathering!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Position the oven rack in the middle.
Prepare a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking pan by greasing it with unsalted butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup (240 ml) of unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, and 1 cup (220 g) of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition.
Then, blend in 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of vanilla extract until just combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon (5 g) of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) of baking soda, 1 teaspoon (2 g) of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) of salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined (do not overmix).
Fold in 1 cup (175 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup (120 g) of chopped nuts, and 1 cup (150 g) of dried cranberries or raisins using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Remove the baking pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
After cooling slightly, transfer the baked bar cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes more.
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before cutting into squares or bars.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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Variations

Nut-Free Version: Replace 1 cup (120 g) of chopped nuts with an extra 1/2 cup (75 g) of chocolate chips for a delicious nut-free cookie option.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute 2 cups (250 g) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl: Incorporate 1/2 cup (120 ml) of creamy peanut butter into the batter, swirling it in for a rich chocolate and peanut butter combination.
Vegan Option: Use 1 cup (240 ml) of coconut oil in place of butter, 2 flax eggs instead of real eggs, and make certain the chocolate chips are dairy-free for a tasty vegan treat.

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Tips on plating and presentation

For a festive touch, consider arranging your Christmas bar cookies on a vibrant, decorative platter.

I love adding some holiday-themed garnishes like sprigs of rosemary or edible glitter to make them pop.

You can also stack them in layers, separating each layer with parchment paper.

This adds height and visual interest, turning your delicious treats into a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While planning your holiday menu, consider pairing Christmas bar cookies with a variety of complementary dishes that enhance their festive flair.

I love serving them alongside assorted cheeses and cured meats for a savory contrast. You could also include a colorful fruit platter to add freshness.

Finally, don’t forget about some spiced nuts for an extra crunch that rounds out the spread beautifully.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

How do you elevate the enjoyment of Christmas bar cookies?

Pairing them with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a rich hot chocolate really enhances the flavors.

If you want something lighter, a festive cranberry spritzer is invigorating.

For the adults, I love a nice glass of mulled wine.

Each sip complements the sweet, buttery goodness of those tasty cookies!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Christmas Bar Cookies for Later Consumption?

Absolutely, I freeze my cookies for later! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They taste just as good when I finally pull them out. Enjoy!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature, but if I store them in an airtight container, they often last up to two weeks. Freezing extends their freshness even longer!

Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?

Yes, I can easily make gluten-free options for this recipe. I substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour, ensuring the cookies still taste delicious while being suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I Use a Different Type of Chocolate?

Absolutely, I’ve used dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, and it turned out delicious! You can also try white chocolate or even a mix—experimenting adds a fun twist to the flavor profile. Enjoy!

What Are the Best Storage Methods for These Cookies?

I find the best storage method is to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If I want them fresh longer, I freeze them, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.