Christmas Bar Cookies: 5 Heartwarming Recipes to Try

Name: Christmas Bar Cookies: 5 Heartwarming Recipes to Try
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts; 1 cup dried cranberries

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 30, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, the magic of the holiday season! There’s just something so special about baking Christmas bar cookies that makes my heart sing. The moment I crack open a bag of chocolate chips and mix them with sweet, tangy dried cranberries and crunchy nuts, I know I’m in for a treat. These festive flavors combine to create a delicious bar cookie that fills my kitchen with warm aromas and delightful holiday spirit. Every year, I whip up a batch (or two, or three!) of these Christmas bar cookies to share with family and friends. They vanish almost instantly! I love how easy they are to make, and I can already picture everyone’s smiles when they take that first bite. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, just like they are in mine!

Ingredients List

To create these scrumptious Christmas bar cookies, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
1 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and a delightful texture.
1 cup brown sugar: Opt for packed brown sugar to get that rich, molasses flavor.
2 large eggs: These will bind everything together beautifully.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for that warm, aromatic flavor.
3 cups all-purpose flour: Be sure to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This provides the lift your cookies need.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors.
2 cups chocolate chips: Go for semi-sweet or dark, depending on your preference!
1 cup chopped nuts: I love using walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
1 cup dried cranberries: These add a lovely tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness.

How to Prepare Christmas Bar Cookies

Preheat and Mix

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and toasty before your cookies hit the pan! While that’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl. It’s time to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. I usually mix it for about 2-3 minutes, and oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Make sure to mix well until everything is nicely combined. This step is super important because it creates that lovely airy texture in your cookies.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for achieving the perfect rise in your cookies. Don’t skip this step! It might seem small, but it makes a big difference in the final texture.

Final Mixing and Baking

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the buttery goodness, mixing just until combined. You don’t want to overdo it – a few flour streaks are totally okay. Next, gently fold in those delicious chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries. Wow, just look at that vibrant color! Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan, and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden brown and the edges are slightly firm. I usually check around the 25-minute mark. The smell will be irresistible! Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key, but trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Flavors: Each bite is like a celebration! The combination of chocolate, cranberries, and nuts creates a symphony of deliciousness.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these Christmas bar cookies come together quickly, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share at holiday parties, or gift them in pretty tins. Everyone loves homemade treats!
Versatile Treat: You can easily customize these cookies with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making them your own.
Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the butter and brown sugar, each cookie stays wonderfully moist, even days after baking!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Christmas bar cookies turn out absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips! First, always use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, as they blend more easily and create that lovely, airy texture. Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; a few lumps are totally fine! Also, consider lining your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and neat cuts. And here’s a fun tip: sprinkle a little sea salt on top right before baking to enhance the flavors and add a delightful crunch. Trust me, these little touches make all the difference!

Variations

If you want to shake things up with your Christmas bar cookies, the possibilities are endless! Try swapping out the chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate for a different flavor twist. You could also add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday touch. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some toasted coconut or switch the nuts for seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, for a nut-free version. For a festive flair, sprinkle in some holiday-themed sprinkles before baking. Each variation brings a unique spin to this classic recipe, keeping the holiday spirit alive!

Nutritional Information Section

These delicious Christmas bar cookies are not only a festive treat but also come with some nutritional notes. Each bar contains approximately 250 calories, 12g of fat, 3g of protein, and 34g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make Christmas bar cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!

Q2. What can I substitute for the nuts in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a nut-free version, feel free to swap the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. You can also leave them out entirely for a simpler version!

Q3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Your cookies are ready when they’re golden brown around the edges and slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Q4. Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Definitely! You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference. Each type will give your Christmas bar cookies a unique twist!

Q5. What’s the best way to cut these bar cookies?
Once they’ve cooled completely, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts!