Chocolate chip cookie bars were my obsession for a long time. They are similar to cookies but different enough to induce cravings for the chewiness of the bars. Add M&Ms to the mix and it’s glorious! I love how easy it is to make these bars, how they fit for any occasion just by changing the colors of M&Ms, and when I have drizzled the glaze over the top, they are immediately elevated to a higher end dessert – and too delicious for my own good.
Personally, I like these to be thick because it brings out the chewy texture and they stack nicely. Also, removing them when they are just barely golden on top is key. They may look a little uncooked, but they will be perfec
Ingredients
Bars
1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. Kosher salt
1 cup chocolate chips (plus more for tops if desired)
1 cup M&M’s (plus more for tops if desired)
Optional Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 Tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk (more or less as needed)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (more to taste)
Pinch of salt (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325°F.
In a large bowl using a mixer, cream together the butter and sugars for 1 minute.
Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
Add the flour, baking soda and salt and stir mixture just until combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and 3/4 cup M&M’s
For thick bars: line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper or foil.
For thinner bars: line a 15×10 pan with parchment paper or foil.
Leave an overhang of parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
Then spray pan with non-stick spray.
Scoop cookie dough into the pan and press down evenly.
Then place extra M&M’s and chocolate chips on the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is barely golden brown.
Allow to cool completely, then remove and slice.
OPTIONAL GLAZE
Combine the powdered sugar, heavy cream and vanilla in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
Add more cream as needed to thin out the consistency. You want it to be smooth and slightly thicker so that it doesn’t run off your baked goods. Taste and add more vanilla or a pinch of salt if desired.
Place in a zip top bag and snip the end to drizzle.
Notes
• Use any colors of M&Ms you would like, or which coordinate with a holiday.
• Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Wrap in foil, place in an airtight container, and freeze bars up to 3 months.
Remove an hour before serving to thaw or in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.