If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the joy of cookies with the fun of candy, these soft-baked M&M cookie bars are just what you need. This recipe brings together the classic taste of cookies with colorful, crunchy M&Ms, making it an instant favorite among kids and adults alike. Not only do they look fantastic with their vibrant colors peeking through the golden dough, but they also deliver a wonderful combination of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply craving something sweet at home, these cookie bars are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal time required in the kitchen, you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey cookie bars ready to enjoy in no time. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cookie bars; make sure to measure it accurately for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps create a chewy texture in your cookie bars.
- Brown Sugar: Using brown sugar enhances the flavor profile and keeps the bars moist.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is essential for achieving that rich flavor and soft texture.
- Eggs: One large egg binds the ingredients together while contributing richness.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps your cookie bars rise perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances overall flavor and aroma.
- M&Ms: Use a mix of regular and mini varieties for added texture and visual appeal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add one egg into the mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
Step 4: Fold in M&Ms
Gently fold in the colorful M&Ms until evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can reserve some for topping later if desired.
Step 5: Pour Into Baking Dish
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula; top with reserved M&Ms for an eye-catching finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until edges are set but center remains slightly soft. Let them cool before cutting into squares.
Transfer to plates and enjoy your soft-baked cookie bars warm or at room temperature!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs reach room temperature before starting; this leads to better blending.
- Don’t Overbake: For that perfect chewy texture, remove them from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked; they’ll continue cooking as they cool.
- Add Nuts: If you enjoy nuts, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans alongside the M&Ms for an extra crunch.
How to Serve Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
This Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the chewy cookie bars, making for a delightful treat.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the bars intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a decadent touch.
- Coffee: A cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookie bars, balancing flavors and providing a cozy experience.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough for Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Storing: Keep leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their soft texture.
Suggestions for Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars. Cold butter or eggs can hinder the mixing process, resulting in a dense cookie bar instead of a soft and chewy one. Allow your butter to sit out for about 30 minutes before baking. Similarly, eggs should also be at room temperature to blend well with the other ingredients. This simple step can significantly improve the overall outcome of your cookie bars, making them light and fluffy.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing your dough can lead to tough cookie bars rather than soft-baked goodness. When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. A few flour streaks are okay; they will disappear as you fold in the M&M candies. This method helps maintain a tender texture that melts in your mouth. Remember, your goal is to create a batter that is slightly lumpy but cohesive, ensuring that each bite of these delightful cookie bars remains soft and delicious.
Measure Ingredients Accurately
Accurate measurement of ingredients is essential when baking Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars. Using too much flour can make your bars dry and crumbly, while too little sugar could lead to an overly bland flavor. Invest in a good kitchen scale for precise measurements or use measuring cups correctly by spooning flour into the cup without packing it down. Level it off with a knife for accuracy. This attention to detail ensures that every batch yields consistent results, so you can enjoy perfectly baked bars every time.
Bake at the Right Temperature
Baking at the right temperature is vital for achieving soft-baked perfection in your M&M cookie bars. An oven that’s too hot can cause the edges to brown quickly while leaving the center undercooked, leading to an uneven texture. Preheat your oven adequately and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Typically, baking at 350°F (175°C) works best for these treats, allowing them to cook evenly without losing their soft and chewy nature. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
FAQs
What makes Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars different from regular cookies?
Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars differ from traditional cookies primarily due to their thickness and texture. While cookies are typically round and have a crisp edge with a chewy center, cookie bars are baked in a pan and cut into squares or rectangles after cooling. This method creates a denser texture that retains moisture better than individual cookies do. The addition of M&M candies provides bursts of chocolatey sweetness throughout each bar, making them irresistibly delicious and perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Can I substitute other candies in my Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! You can customize your Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars by substituting other candies or chocolates according to your taste preferences. Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch, or try using chocolate chips instead of M&Ms if you’re looking for a more chocolate-forward treat. Dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries can also add a unique twist while enhancing flavor complexity. Just ensure any substitutions maintain similar proportions so that the overall texture remains balanced.
How should I store my Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars?
To keep your Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars fresh and delicious, store them properly after they cool completely. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, ensuring they remain soft and chewy. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them instead; wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy these sweet treats whenever cravings strike!
Can I make Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Yes! Making Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars ahead of time is a great idea for events or simply having treats ready at home. You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance; just store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap within the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it off. Alternatively, bake the bars ahead of time and store them correctly as previously mentioned—either at room temperature or frozen for longer storage options—so they stay fresh until serving.
Conclusion for Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
In conclusion, creating delightful Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars requires attention to detail but offers rewarding results that everyone will love. Remember to use room temperature ingredients for optimal mixing, avoid overmixing the dough, and measure accurately for consistent outcomes every time you bake these treats. Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking while maintaining their signature softness that makes these cookie bars stand out from regular cookies. By keeping these tips in mind along with proper storage methods, you’ll enjoy these delectable dessert bars long after they come out of the oven!
Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 servings
Description
Soft-Baked M&M Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for cookie and candy lovers alike. These bars blend the soft, chewy texture of classic cookies with the colorful crunch of M&Ms, making them a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Eggs
- Baking soda
- Vanilla extract
- M&Ms (regular and mini)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Fold in M&Ms gently, reserving some for topping if desired.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish and top with reserved M&Ms.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly soft. Allow to cool before cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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