Easy M&M Cookie Bars are a fun and simple dessert that combines classic cookie flavors with the colorful crunch of M&Ms. Made with a base of butter, sugar, and flour, these bars are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The addition of mini chocolate chips enhances the sweetness, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. With minimal preparation time and a short baking duration, these cookie bars are ideal for quick gatherings or a cozy snack at home. Simply mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy these delicious, chewy bars!

Easy M&M Cookie Bars
Easy m&m cookie bars | Myhomemaderecipe.com

Easy M&M Cookie Bars are the perfect treat when you want a quick and simple dessert that’s both colorful and delicious. With a chewy texture and a burst of chocolate from the M&Ms and mini chocolate chips, these bars are a hit for any occasion. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful bars.

INGREDIENTS

  • Salted butter: ½ cup, softened, to create a rich and creamy base for the dough.
  • Granulated sugar: ½ cup for sweetness and a chewy texture.
  • Light brown sugar: ½ cup, packed, to add moisture and flavor.
  • Egg: 1 large, for binding the dough and adding richness.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor.
  • All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, forming the structure of the bars.
  • Baking soda: ½ teaspoon to help the bars rise and become light.
  • Baking powder: ¼ teaspoon for additional leavening.
  • Fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
  • M&Ms: ½ cup, adding color and a crunchy texture.
  • Mini chocolate chips: ¼ cup, for an extra burst of chocolate in every bite.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2:
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Set the dry ingredients aside.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Gently fold in the M&Ms and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Step 5:
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Step 6:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve the Easy M&M Cookie Bars at room temperature for the best texture. They make a perfect treat for parties, picnics, or an easy dessert at home.
  • Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
  • To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful Notes

  • If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the bars and let them cool in the pan. They will firm up as they set.
  • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other mix-ins like chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or crushed pretzels for a different flavor profile.
  • For a festive touch, swap out regular M&Ms with holiday-themed ones to match the occasion.

Tips from well-known chefs

  • Chef Christina Tosi suggests using a combination of brown and white sugar to achieve a balanced sweetness and a chewy texture.
  • Chef Duff Goldman recommends chilling the dough for 10 minutes before baking to prevent the bars from spreading too much in the oven.
  • Chef Claire Saffitz advises using parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal and cleaner cuts.