Introduction

These M&M Cookie Bars are a colorful twist on classic cookies, perfect for sharing or satisfying your sweet tooth. Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate and candy, they’re simple to make and sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ⅓ cup M&M candies (divided)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350℉. Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper or foil and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In the bowl of a stand mixer, or with a hand mixer in a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix until combined.
Step 4: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in 1 cup of M&M candies and all of the chocolate chips.
Step 6: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining M&M candies on top, pressing them gently into the dough.
Step 7: Bake for 22-30 minutes, or until the top is golden, the edges are lightly browned, and the center is just set. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra chewiness, avoid overbaking; the bars should still be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven.
You can substitute peanut butter M&Ms or add chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor.
Using room temperature butter helps the dough come together smoothly and results in better texture.

Storage

Store the cooled cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of candy instead of M&Ms?

Yes, you can substitute with other candies like chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped candy bars depending on your preference.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden, the edges are lightly browned, and the center is just barely set. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.

M&M Cookie Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 132 reviews

These M&M Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on classic cookies, combining a chewy texture with colorful candy and chocolate chips. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, they make an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Add-ins

1⅓ cup M&M candies (divided)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and set it aside to make removal easier after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the room temperature unsalted butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Lower the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredient mixture a little at a time, mixing just until all flour is moistened and the dough is uniform.
Fold in Candy and Chocolate: Gently fold in 1 cup of M&M candies and all the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough by hand to evenly distribute.
Press Dough into Pan: Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of M&M candies on top to decorate.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 30 minutes. The bars are done when the top is golden, edges are lightly browned, and the center is just barely set.
Cool and Slice: Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before slicing into squares for serving.

Notes

Ensure butter is at room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy batter.
You can substitute M&M candies with other chocolate candies or even Reese’s Pieces for variation.
If you prefer softer bars, reduce the baking time slightly and watch carefully.
Store cooled cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For easier slicing, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting.

Keywords: M&M cookie bars, chocolate chip cookie bars, easy cookie bars, colorful cookie bars, dessert bars