M&M Cookie Bars Recipe

If you're looking for a dessert that's easy to make, fun to eat, and sure to please any crowd, you've come to the right place! M&M cookie bars combine the chewy, rich texture of cookies with the convenience of bars, making them an ideal choice for parties, bake sales, or even a cozy night in. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect M&M cookie bars, including ingredients, substitutions, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips. Read on for the ultimate M&M cookie bar recipe that will satisfy any sweet tooth!

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What Are M&M Cookie Bars?

M&M cookie bars are deliciously chewy, soft bars packed with chocolate chips and M&M candies. Essentially, they’re like chocolate chip cookies but baked in bar form, making them thicker and easier to serve in squares. The colorful M&M candies add a festive touch, making these bars perfect for any occasion or holiday. With a golden-brown exterior and gooey center, M&M cookie bars offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.

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Ingredients List for M&M Cookie Bars

Here’s everything you need to whip up a batch of these delicious M&M cookie bars. These ingredients are pantry-friendly and easy to find at any grocery store.

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
• 1 to 1½ cups M&M candies

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about M&M cookie bars is their versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Butter Substitute: If you’re looking to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil. Note that this may slightly alter the flavor.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option.
• Flour Alternatives: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make these bars gluten-free. Almond flour can work too, but it may change the texture.
• Add-Ins: Try adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even peanut butter chips to add extra flavor and texture.
• Different Candy Options: Swap the M&Ms with Reese's Pieces, chocolate chunks, or even peanut butter cups for a twist on the original recipe.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making M&M cookie bars is incredibly simple, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Follow these instructions to get perfect bars every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, making it easier to remove the bars after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars too dense.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips and M&Ms

Fold in the chocolate chips and 1 cup of M&Ms, reserving a handful of M&Ms to sprinkle on top. This will make the bars look extra colorful and appealing.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, and sprinkle the reserved M&Ms over the surface for added color.

Step 6: Bake

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.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

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How to Cook M&M Cookie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating M&M cookie bars doesn’t require fancy techniques, but here’s a streamlined guide to ensure the best results:

1. Melt and Mix: Melt the butter before mixing it with sugars to create a smooth base.
2. Balance Wet and Dry: Don’t overmix; once the flour is incorporated, stop stirring.
3. Bake Until Just Right: Aim for a golden-brown color around the edges and a slightly soft center.
4. Cooling: Allow the bars to cool entirely before cutting for cleaner slices.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure perfect M&M cookie bars every time:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Not Using Enough Butter: Butter is essential for the chewy texture. Make sure you’re using a full cup for the best results.
• Overbaking: M&M cookie bars should be soft and chewy, so avoid baking too long. Take them out when the edges are golden, and the center is slightly soft.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting the bars before they’re cool can make them crumbly and messy.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make all the difference, especially if you’re serving these at a party or gathering. Here’s how to make your M&M cookie bars look as good as they taste:

1. Cut into Even Squares: Use a ruler and a sharp knife to cut even squares. This makes for a clean and professional look.
2. Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a festive touch.
3. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the bars on a large serving platter, with a few extra M&Ms scattered around for decoration.

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How to Serve M&M Cookie Bars

These cookie bars are best served at room temperature, allowing the flavors and texture to shine. Serve them:

• On their own as a finger-friendly dessert.
• With Ice Cream: Warm up a square and top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• With Coffee or Hot Cocoa: They pair perfectly with a hot beverage for a cozy snack.

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Presentation Ideas for M&M Cookie Bars

To elevate the presentation, try some of these ideas:

• Gift Wrap: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and tie with a colorful ribbon for party favors.
• Layered Display: Arrange the bars on a tiered dessert stand to create visual interest.
• Seasonal M&Ms: Customize with seasonal M&Ms to match a holiday theme, like red and green for Christmas or pastel for Easter.

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M&M Cookie Bars Recipe Tips

For perfect M&M cookie bars every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs come to room temperature before adding them to the batter. This helps the batter mix smoothly.
2. Chill the Dough (optional): If you prefer thicker bars, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking.
3. Don’t Overload with M&Ms: While tempting, too many M&Ms can make the bars overly sweet. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze M&M cookie bars?
A: Yes! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I keep the bars chewy?
A: Make sure not to overbake. Pull them from the oven when the edges are golden, but the center is still soft.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly.

Q: Are M&M cookie bars gluten-free?
A: Not with the original recipe, but you can make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Q: What type of M&Ms work best?
A: Regular milk chocolate M&Ms work well, but you can also use peanut, mini, or seasonal varieties.

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Conclusion

M&M cookie bars are the perfect blend of chewy cookie texture and colorful candy fun. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, birthday, or just a sweet craving, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade M&M cookie bars!

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