The aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies wafting through your home can instantly brighten even the chilliest of winter days. Enter these vibrant Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars, a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any festive gathering. With just a 10-minute prep time using Betty Crocker’s sugar cookie mix, you’ll find yourself ready for cookie trays, potlucks, and joyous cookie exchanges with ease. Imagine the smiles on your friends’ and family’s faces as they indulge in these cheerful, colorful bars, perfectly soft and chewy with every bite. Are you ready to make your holiday baking stress-free and oh-so-delicious?
Why Are These Bars a Festive Favorite?
Colors and Crunch: With vibrant M&M’s throughout, these bars are as fun to look at as they are to eat!
Quick & Easy: Just a 10-minute prep time using Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix means more holiday cheer and less stress.
Soft & Chewy: Enjoy a perfectly balanced texture that’s both satisfying and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Versatile: Use different seasonal M&M varieties to keep things exciting year after year!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks and cookie exchanges, you’ll be the hit of the party with these delightful treats. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for the ultimate festive indulgence.
Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars Ingredients
For the Bars
• Betty Crocker™ Sugar Cookie Mix – A convenient base for deliciousness; feel free to use any sugar cookie mix you love.
• Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Gives richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened to blend perfectly into the dough.
• Egg (1) – Acts as a binder to hold everything together; for a lighter option, substitute with 1/4 cup of applesauce.
• White Vanilla Baking Chips (1 cup) – Infuses sweetness and a creamy texture; consider butterscotch or chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• M&M’s® Chocolate Candies (1 cup) – Adds cheerful color and a crunchy surprise; seasonal varieties make these bars even more festive!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that your delightful Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars will come out easily after baking, setting you up for a stress-free preparation!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and egg. Use a hand mixer or your trusty wooden spoon to blend the ingredients thoroughly until a soft and cohesive dough forms, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and slightly sticky, indicative of the delicious bars to come!
Step 3: Fold in the Goodies
Now, gently fold in the white vanilla baking chips and M&M’s, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds a touch of sweetness and color to your Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars. Make sure to mix until you see bits of chocolate and vibrant candy nestled in the dough, ready to bring joy to each bite!
Step 4: Spread into the Pan
Transfer the cookie dough mixture into your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, evenly spread the dough across the bottom of the pan, smoothing down the surface. This will create an even baking layer, ensuring all pieces turn out equally delicious when you indulge in these festive treats!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges as they should turn a lovely golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This indicates that your Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars are perfectly baked!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bars set before slicing. After they have cooled enough to handle, cut them into squares or rectangles, showcasing the colorful M&M’s that make these bars a festive favorite!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars
Airtight Container: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, ensuring they stay soft and chewy for all your holiday snacking needs.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the bars where they can last up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to seal them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing: You can freeze Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container to preserve their delightful flavor.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight to thaw. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful treats with less effort during your busy days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and egg, then fold in the white vanilla baking chips and M&M’s. Cover the mixing bowl tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain quality, ensure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re set to serve these festive bars, spread the dough into the baking pan and bake as instructed. You’ll have fresh, delicious treats with minimal effort that everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars
Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and the best possible texture in your bars.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; they should be soft in the center upon removal from the oven for the ideal chewy texture.
Festive Toppings: For a special touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate or sprinkling extra M&M’s on top before baking, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Mixing Method: When mixing your dough, avoid over-mixing. Just blend until combined to keep your bars soft and tender, rather than tough.
Cooling Time: Allow the Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars to cool before slicing; this helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars?
Imagine a cozy gathering where your freshly baked bars are the center of attention, igniting joyful conversations and indulgent cravings.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of rich hot cocoa perfectly complements these festive bars, enhancing their sweetness and creating a comforting treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the sugary bars, making each bite feel like a dreamy dessert experience.
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Fruity Yogurt Parfaits: Layered yogurt with fresh fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the bars’ sweetness, adding a healthy balance to your holiday feast.
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Milk: The classic pairing of cold milk offers a nostalgic touch that accentuates the buttery vanilla flavor of the bars while helping to wash down the sweetness.
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Sparkling Cider: Celebrate the season with a bubbly glass of sparkling cider; its sweetness and fizziness create a fun contrast to the chewy bars.
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Simple Cheesecake Bites: For a more decadent treat, mini cheesecake bites bring a creamy richness that complements the colorful M&M’s without overpowering them.
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Chewy Gummy Bears: A playful addition, gummy bears add a fun texture and fruity flavor that can delight kids at your holiday festivities.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider provides a cozy backdrop for your bars, enhancing the festive atmosphere with its aromatic flavors.
Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars Variations
Let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic recipe—customize your bars to suit any occasion or taste!
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Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor that adds a delightful surprise.
The aromatic notes of almond can elevate your cookie bars, making them truly special. -
Mini M&M’s: Swap regular M&M’s for mini versions to create a delicate appearance and extra crunch in each bite.
These little candies pack a punch of color and flavor, perfect for a fun twist on the classic! -
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to introduce a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
This combination not only enhances texture but also imparts a wonderful autumnal nutty taste to the bars. -
Dried Fruits: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of sweet and tart flavors.
The juicy fruit pieces contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the dough, adding both color and complexity. -
Chocolate Chip Upgrade: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead of white vanilla baking chips for a rich chocolate infusion.
This swap will appeal to all chocolate lovers and create a decadent version of your beloved bars. -
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor.
This addition transforms the bars into a seasonal treat, perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. -
S’mores Style: Incorporate mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers to make a delightful s’mores-inspired version.
Bring the campfire vibe to the kitchen with this exciting and nostalgic twist!
These creative variations will not only enhance your Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars but also keep your baking adventures fresh and exciting. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these twists are sure to impress! For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Cheesecake Cookie Dough or our cheerful S’more Bars for more ways to share joy through baking!
Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose M&M’s for my bars?
When selecting M&M’s, I recommend using seasonal varieties to enhance the festive spirit! Look for bright, vibrant colors that will beautifully contrast with the golden dough. Ensure the M&M’s are not damaged; avoid any with dark spots, as they may not look appealing in your finished bars.
How should I store my Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars?
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days—this will maintain their coveted soft and chewy texture! If you need them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to seal them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, transfer the desired amount to the fridge overnight to thaw. For that freshly baked taste, you can warm them briefly in the microwave right before enjoying!
What if my bars turn out too dry or crumbly?
If your Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars are too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking—remove the bars as soon as the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Also, make sure your butter is softened—this moisture is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for these bars?
If you have concerns about allergies, keep in mind that M&M’s contain milk and may also have traces of nuts. For a lighter version, you can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup applesauce. If you’re baking for pets, remember that chocolate is toxic to them, so be sure to keep these away from furry friends.
Festive Sugar Cookie M&M’s Bars Your New Holiday Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the white vanilla baking chips and M&M’s until evenly distributed.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.