Every Christmas I make these irresistible cookie bars that bring pure joy to my kitchen. Loaded with holiday M&Ms sweet caramel and crunchy pretzels they're my go to recipe when I want something special but simple. The combination of chewy sweet and salty makes everyone's eyes light up when they spot these on my holiday cookie platter.
What Makes These Bars So Special
What I love most about these bars is how they combine everything wonderful about cookies without any fussy scooping. The texture is absolutely perfect soft and chewy inside with little bursts of crunch from M&Ms and pretzels. That touch of caramel just takes them over the top. They're my secret weapon for busy holiday baking days.
Key Ingredients
- Caramel: I love using Kraft or Werther's cut into tiny pieces they melt into perfect pockets of sweetness.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These give that classic chocolate chip cookie taste sometimes I mix dark and milk chocolate.
- M&M's: Those festive red and green candies make these bars pure Christmas magic.
- Pretzels: Just break them into pieces they add the perfect salty crunch.
- Butter: Always use unsalted melted butter it makes these bars so tender.
- Sprinkles: I love adding red and green jimmies when I want extra Christmas sparkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients
- First thing I do is chop up those caramels and break the pretzels into bite sized pieces.
- Mix the Dough
- Mix your melted butter with sugars then add eggs and vanilla. Fold in dry ingredients just until combined then stir in all those yummy mix ins.
- Prepare the Pan
- Press everything into your lined pan I use the back of a measuring cup to get it nice and even. Sprinkle extra toppings on for that wow factor.
- Bake
- Pop it in a 350°F oven for about 16 minutes until the edges are just golden. Let them cool right in the pan.
- Chill and Slice
- For perfect squares I always pop them in the fridge before cutting. Makes such a difference.
Keeping Them Fresh
These bars stay perfectly soft for 3 days in a container on the counter or up to 5 days in the fridge. If you want to make them ahead they freeze beautifully for a couple months. Just remember those pretzels might lose their crunch over time so I usually save those for bars we'll eat soon.
My Favorite Baking Tips
Want picture perfect cuts? Pop the pan in the freezer for a bit before slicing. I always run my knife under hot water dry it off then slice they come out so clean. Play around with the mix ins too sometimes I throw in white chocolate chips or butterscotch. A sprinkle of sea salt on top really makes the flavors pop.
Mix It Up
These bars are so versatile I make them year round just changing up the M&M colors for different holidays. During Christmas I love adding crushed candy canes or drizzling white chocolate over the top. The possibilities are endless just use your favorite holiday treats.
Perfect for Gifting
These bars never fail to bring smiles at cookie swaps and holiday parties. Their festive colors catch everyone's eye and the taste keeps them coming back for more. Pack them in pretty boxes with tissue paper they make the sweetest homemade gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I adjust the mix-ins?
- Yes, you can use any combination of mix-ins totaling 2 cups. Mix and match chocolates, candies, nuts, or pretzels as desired.
- → Why is my dough runny?
- Give the dough 5 minutes to set as the butter cools. If still too runny, add up to 1/4 cup additional flour.
- → How do I store these bars?
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for 1-2 months in a freezer bag or container.
- → Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- No, use real unsalted butter for best results. Margarine will affect texture and flavor.
- → Why shouldn't I use a mixer?
- Hand-mixing with a spatula prevents overmixing, which can lead to tough cookie bars. The dough should be mixed just until ingredients are combined.