Delightful Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars with M&Ms Recipe
The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats, and one of the easiest, most delightful desserts you can whip up is holiday cake mix cookie bars with M&Ms. These festive bars are not only visually appealing with their colorful candy topping, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. These cookie bars are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire, perfect for a last-minute holiday party or as a fun activity with the kids. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be foolproof, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
Why Choose Cake Mix Cookie Bars?
Cake mix cookie bars are a go-to for several reasons:
- Simplicity: Using a cake mix significantly cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatility: You can easily swap out the M&Ms for other toppings or mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles.
- Consistency: The cake mix ensures your bars come out perfectly every time, with a soft, chewy texture that everyone loves.
These bars also have a great balance of sweet and salty, thanks to the combination of the cake mix base and the addition of the M&Ms. Plus, they store well, making them an excellent option for holiday gifts or make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful holiday cake mix cookie bars with M&Ms. This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.
| Ingredient | US Measurement | Metric Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow or White Cake Mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | 432 g |
| Unsalted Butter, melted | 1/2 cup | 115 g |
| Large Eggs | 2 | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | 5 ml |
| Holiday M&Ms | 1 cup | 200 g |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional) | 1/2 cup | 85 g |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 2 g |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | 1.25 g |
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until fully incorporated. The dough will be thick, similar to cookie dough. Add in the vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt, and mix well. If you’re adding semi-sweet chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this stage.
3. Spread the Dough
Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking dish. It may be a bit sticky, so you can use a spatula or your hands (dampen them with a little water to prevent sticking) to press it down evenly.
4. Add the M&Ms
Once the dough is spread evenly, sprinkle the M&Ms on top, pressing them gently into the dough to ensure they adhere during baking.
5. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the bars to remain soft and chewy.
6. Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your holiday cake mix cookie bars with M&Ms are ready to be enjoyed! These bars can be served at room temperature or slightly warmed for an extra gooey texture.
Tips and Variations
- Substitute the M&Ms: Try using other types of candy or mix-ins, such as Reese’s Pieces, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries for a holiday twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Add Some Spice: For a wintery flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re expecting a crowd, double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some additional chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the cooled bars for an extra layer of decadence.
Storage and Freezing
These cookie bars store wonderfully, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To serve, thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday cake mix cookie bars with M&Ms are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs perfectly with the chewy, sweet bars.
- Holiday Platters: Include these bars in a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies, fudge, and other festive treats.
- Gift Idea: Wrap the bars individually in holiday-themed cellophane bags and give them as gifts to friends, neighbors, or co-workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow or white cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with chocolate, spice, or even red velvet cake mix for a fun twist.
2. What if I don’t have M&Ms?
No M&Ms? No problem. You can use chocolate chips, chopped chocolate bars, or any other candy you prefer.
3. How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake them.
4. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a vegan butter substitute. Ensure your cake mix and M&Ms are also vegan.
5. What if my dough is too dry?
If your dough is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to help bring it together. The dough should be thick but still pliable.
Conclusion
Holiday cake mix cookie bars with M&Ms are a delightful and easy treat that will add a touch of festive cheer to any occasion. With their colorful appearance, delicious flavor, and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a holiday gathering, or just craving something sweet, these cookie bars are the perfect solution. Enjoy the simplicity of cake mix with the added fun of M&Ms, and make your holiday season a little sweeter!
