M&M Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No rolling dough into individual cookies, just mix and bake. It’s as simple as that!

• Chewy Texture: The bars are soft and chewy, with that perfect balance of a slightly crispy edge.

• Customizable: You can use any type of M&Ms, and even add other mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to make it your own.

• Fun and Colorful: The colorful M&Ms make these bars as fun to look at as they are to eat. They’re ideal for kids' parties, birthdays, or just brightening up your day.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup M&M candies (plus extra for topping)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and add the vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in 1 cup of M&Ms, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Press the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

8. Sprinkle extra M&Ms on top of the dough for a colorful finish.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 squares (depending on how large you cut them)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25-30 minutes

• Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• M&M Flavors: Feel free to swap out the classic M&Ms for peanut, almond, or even pretzel M&Ms for a different twist.

• Add-ins: For a richer flavor, add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut to the dough.

• Brown Butter: If you want to take it up a notch, brown the butter before adding it to the dough for a nutty, caramelized flavor.

• Cut into Bars or Bites: If you prefer, you can cut the cookie dough into smaller bite-sized pieces instead of bars.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the M&M cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: These cookie bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: For a warm, gooey treat, you can microwave the bars for 15-20 seconds or reheat them in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of M&Ms?

Yes, you can swap out regular M&Ms for peanut, mini, or even holiday-themed M&Ms for a fun twist.

2. Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is designed for baking to ensure the texture is right.

3. Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

No, chilling the dough is not necessary for this recipe. You can mix and bake right away.

4. How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done.

5. Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, like a 12x18-inch baking sheet. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a few extra minutes.

6. Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even chopped candy bars to customize the flavor.

7. How can I prevent the edges from over-baking?

To prevent the edges from becoming too crispy, be sure to use the right-sized pan and check the bars a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just spread the dough in the pan and bake as directed.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter provides the best flavor and texture for these cookie bars, but you can use margarine if needed. The texture may vary slightly.

10. Can I freeze the baked cookie bars?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie bars once they’ve cooled. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

M&M Cookie Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the flavors of classic cookies with the fun of colorful candies. Whether you're baking for a party, a family treat, or just because, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious, these cookie bars will become a go-to in your baking rotation.