Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint pieces
- 1/2 cup seasonal chocolate chips (red and green)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Holiday sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Add the Mix-Ins: Fold in the crushed candy canes, seasonal chocolate chips, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Spread and Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Baking Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 220 per bar | Servings: 24 bars
