Print

M&M Cookie Bars Recipe

4.5 from 67 reviews

Deliciously soft and chewy M&M Cookie Bars that combine the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with colorful M&M candies. Perfectly baked in a 9×13 pan, these bars offer a festive and fun treat ideal for parties, snacks, or anytime you crave a sweet indulgence.

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 cups M&M candies, divided
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal of the cookie bars.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. Set this mixture aside to incorporate later with the wet ingredients.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the room temperature unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will help create a tender texture in the bars.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: To the creamed butter and sugar, add the eggs and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully incorporated.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  6. Fold in M&Ms and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of the M&M candies along with the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
  7. Press Dough and Add Topping: Evenly press the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of M&M candies evenly over the top for a colorful finish.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, edges are lightly browned, and the center is just set but still soft to the touch.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature butter to achieve a smooth and even dough texture.
  • Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to ensure tender, chewy cookie bars.
  • You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on preference.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • For an extra treat, warm slightly before serving to melt the chocolate chips.

Keywords: M&M Cookie Bars, cookie bars, chocolate chip cookie bars, easy dessert, baked cookie bars, colorful cookies