Get ready to fall head over heels for the most irresistible sweet treat that's about to become your new dessert obsession! These Valentine M&M Cookie Bars are not just a recipe; they're a celebration of love, color, and pure deliciousness. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, buttery cookie bar studded with vibrant M&M's that practically scream romance – these bars are guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy dance and bring a smile to anyone's face.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup M&M's
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in 3/4 cup of M&M's into the cookie dough, reserving the remaining 1/4 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 for a decorative finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 16 even bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest, most well-incorporated batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to keep your bars tender and soft.
- M&M Placement: Save some M&M's to press on top of the batter before baking for a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy finish.
- Parchment Paper Trick: The overhanging parchment paper makes removing and cutting the bars a breeze.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely to let them set and achieve the perfect texture.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container to keep these bars fresh and delicious for up to 5 days – if they last that long!
- Customize Your Love: Feel free to use Valentine's themed M&M's or mix in different colored candies to match your mood or occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 313kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
