Name: Easy Christmas Cookie Bars Holiday Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1 cup crushed cookies or graham crackers; Festive sprinkles and icing for decoration

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

🎄✨ Easy Christmas Cookie Bars: Your Festive Holiday Treats!

1. Introduction

Nothing signals the arrival of the holiday season quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies. If you’re searching for a dessert that combines ease, holiday cheer, and irresistible flavor, then these Christmas Cookie Bars are your perfect solution. Richly buttery, layered with colorful sprinkles, and topped with gooey frosting, they embody the spirit of festive indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or need a crowd-pleasing gift idea, these treats promise to delight every palate.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Whip up these festive treats in no time, perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
One-pan convenience: No multiple dishes — just a simple baking pan and you’re set.

Colorful & Festive: Bright sprinkles and vibrant frosting make these cookie bars visually irresistible.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or holiday candies.

3. Ingredient Notes

To craft the perfect holiday cookie bars, choosing high-quality ingredients matters. Use unsalted butter for a rich, tender base that isn’t overly salty. Fresh vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and aroma, while colorful holiday sprinkles add visual appeal. For the best taste, opt for compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer to quickly toast nuts or warm the frosting. The flour should be lightly spooned and leveled to ensure the perfect texture. For a plant-based twist, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Creating these holiday cookie bars is easier with the right tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is perfect for quickly warming and crisping toppings. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your baking pans release cookies effortlessly, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking to elevate your cookie-bar presentation, a KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer can knead and mix high-volume ingredients with ease, giving you fluffy dough every time.

5. How to Make Christmas Cookie Bars

Prepare the base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until creamy and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Incorporate the flour gradually until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this will create a tender, crumbly crust. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan, creating a sturdy yet crumbly foundation.

Build the layers

Spoil your taste buds by spreading a generous layer of frosting over the crust. For that classic holiday look, tint the frosting with red and green food coloring. As you spread the frosting, you’ll notice the vibrant hues brighten the bars visually. Sprinkle an array of holiday sprinkles liberally on top, pressing them slightly into the frosting for durability.

Baking & finishing touches

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The smell of sweet vanilla and warm butter will fill your kitchen—it’s pure holiday magic. Let the bars cool completely before slicing. For extra flair, drizzle with melted chocolate or add chopped nuts on top before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can make the crust tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for tender cookie bars.
Chill the frosted bars: For clean cuts, refrigerate the bars for 15-30 minutes after frosting and before slicing.

Use fresh sprinkles: Older sprinkles can bleed color or clump, so opt for vibrant, fresh holiday sprinkles for best visual impact.
Adjust baking time: If you prefer softer bars, slightly reduce baking time; for crisper edges, extend a minute or two.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re accommodating dietary needs or want to customize your festive dessert:

Replace regular flour with almond flour for a gluten-free variation.
Swap sprinkles for holiday-shaped candies or chopped peppermint candies for a seasonal twist.
Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil to make the bars vegan-friendly.

Mix in chopped dried fruits or nuts into the crust for added texture and flavor.

8. Storage & Reheating

These Christmas Cookie Bars store best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week—just bring them to room temperature or warm slightly in your air fryer for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel. They also freeze well; wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the air fryer for a few minutes until soft and gooey.

9. FAQ

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the bars a day in advance, then store in an airtight container. Add sprinkles just before serving to keep their vibrant look.

Can I use different toppings?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with crushed candies, chopped nuts, or dried fruits to tailor the treat to your preferences or holiday theme.

Are these cookie bars suitable for gluten-free diets?

With a simple swap to gluten-free flour, these festive treats can be enjoyed by those avoiding gluten. Just ensure your toppings like sprinkles are gluten-free as well.

10. Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the festive spirit than with these Easy Christmas Cookie Bars. They combine convenience with holiday cheer, making them a perfect addition to your cookie platter or a thoughtful homemade gift. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of baking, and let these delightful treats bring smiles to your family and friends this holiday season!

Easy Christmas Cookie Bars Holiday Treats