Directions to Follow
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition before stirring in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until everything is just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and half of the M&Ms.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly set.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Serve and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cookie bars are a lovely treat on their own but can be elevated with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even drizzled with caramel sauce. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or a cold glass of milk for a comforting dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a heart-shaped platter!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftover cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prolong their life, you can freeze them! Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying, or microwave them for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always measure your flour correctly—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accurate results.
- To enhance flavors, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the sugars for an extra depth of flavor.
- If you want a more festive look, add some edible glitter or sprinkles on top before baking!
Creative Twists
Don’t hesitate to mix things up! You can replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or even add nuts for crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding peanut butter chips or swapping the M&Ms for seasonal candy. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Valentine Cookie Bars?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking will take an additional 22-25 minutes.
Can I use different toppings or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for your favorites, such as butterscotch or peanut butter chips, and use seasonal candies for different occasions.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for golden brown edges and a slightly set center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
These Valentine Cookie Bars make for a heartwarming treat that’s perfect for celebrating love in all its forms. Enjoy baking and sharing them with those you cherish!
