Get ready to indulge in a festive treat with these Loaded Peanut Butter Christmas Cookie Bars! They’re rich, chewy, and loaded with all your favorite flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Tips for Success
For the best results, measure your flour correctly and let your ingredients come to room temperature. Trust me, this part’s so satisfying when everything mixes perfectly!
Favorite Parts
The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and holiday M&Ms is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. You’ve got to try this one!
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
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- Wet Ingredients:
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- Mix-Ins and Decorations:
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Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
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Step 1- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 metal baking pan with aluminum foil, using metal binder clips to keep foil in place. Spray sides and bottom of pan generously with cooking spray. Set aside.
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Step 2- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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Step 3- Cream Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until very well combined, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the eggs, vanilla, and milk and beat until combined.
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Step 4- Combine Mixtures: On low speed, gradually add the flour mixture and beat until just combined. Dough will be thick. Add the peanut butter chips, M&Ms, and chocolate chips and mix until just combined. You may need to do this by hand with a spatula if your mixer isn't strong enough.
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Step 5- Bake the Bars: Remove the dough to the prepared pan, pressing into the pan evenly. Sprinkle with the reserved M&Ms and chocolate chips. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the center is golden brown and just slightly jiggly. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Place pan on a wire rack and let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
- Storage:
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Step 6- Store the bars: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250, Fat: 12g, Carbs: 35g, Protein: 5g
Cooking techniques
Mixing, baking, and cooling are essential techniques for achieving the perfect texture in these cookie bars.
Variations or substitutions
Feel free to substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a nut-free option or use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
Storage tips
Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Notes
For a festive touch, you can add sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top!
