There’s something truly magical about cookie bars, and these M&M Cookie Bars are no exception. With their rich, buttery flavor and a blend of chewy chocolate goodness, they bring together the best of cookie and candy worlds into one delightful treat. I first discovered this recipe during a family gathering, where they quickly vanished from the dessert table, leaving everyone asking for more. Perfect for parties, holidays, or even just a cozy night in, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes these M&M Cookie Bars truly special is their versatility and ease of preparation. They’re the perfect solution for those last-minute dessert cravings or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Whip them up in under an hour, and you’ll find them to be both budget-friendly and kid-approved—who can resist the colorful M&Ms and decadent chocolate chips? Whether you’re baking for a school event, a birthday party, or just for fun, these cookie bars fit the bill.
"I made these M&M Cookie Bars for a potluck, and they were a hit! Everyone raved about the soft, chewy texture and the burst of flavor from the M&Ms. I’ll definitely be making them again!" — Sarah M.
Preparing M&M Cookie Bars
Before diving into baking, let’s set the stage for how these delightful treats come together. This recipe involves a simple creaming method, where butter and sugars blend together to form a light and fluffy base. Adding eggs and vanilla next enriches the flavor, while the dry ingredients offer structure. The fun part is folding in the chocolate chips and M&Ms, making it a dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds.
Mixing these ingredients may become a family affair, as kids love to help sprinkle the candies on top—or sneak a few in the process!
What you’ll need
To get started on these M&M Cookie Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups M&Ms (red, white, and blue mix, or other colorful candy-coated chocolates)
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Feel free to substitute with any candy you have on hand, or use nut-free chocolate chips for a delicious alternative.
