Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly baked cookie bar bursting with vibrant M&M colors, where every bite is a celebration of sweetness and fun! These Rainbow M&M Cookie Bars are not just a dessert; they're an experience that will transport you back to childhood memories of pure joy and excitement. Whether you're looking to impress your family, wow your friends at a potluck, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, these cookie bars are about to become your new favorite indulgence.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bars
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups M&M's
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in 1 1/2 cups of M&M's into the cookie dough, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press the remaining M&M's on top of the dough, creating a colorful surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and cut into 24 even squares.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest, most well-incorporated batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dry and wet ingredients just until combined to keep your bars tender and soft.
- Strategic M&M Placement: Save some M&M's to press on top of the batter before baking for a visually stunning and colorful presentation.
- Parchment Paper Trick: The overhanging parchment paper makes removing and cutting your bars super easy and mess-free.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely in the pan to help them set properly and make cutting easier.
- Customize Your Colors: Choose seasonal M&M colors to make these bars perfect for holidays or special occasions!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
