Why Make This Recipe

Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a delightful and easy way to celebrate the seasons. They are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Using a box of cake mix simplifies the process, allowing you to whip up a batch with minimal effort. Plus, the bright colors of the Easter M&Ms make these bars look festive and fun!

How to Make Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup Easter M&M candies
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir until a dough forms, then fold in the M&M candies and chocolate chips.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. For a more festive look, sprinkle additional M&M candies on top before baking.

How to Serve Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars

Serve these delicious cookie bars warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra tasty treat. You can also cut them into smaller squares for a fun holiday dessert platter.

How to Store Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars

To store your cookie bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer!

Tips to Make Holiday Cake Mix Cookie Bars

• Make sure to mix the dough well for even baking.
• Do not overbake; keep an eye on them to ensure they remain soft and chewy.
• Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different varieties of M&Ms based on the season or occasion for a unique touch.

Variation

For a chocolate version, you can use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. This will create a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs wonderfully with the M&Ms and chocolate chips.

FAQs

1. How long do these cookie bars take to bake?
They typically take about 20 to 25 minutes to bake.

2. Can I use regular M&Ms instead of Easter M&M candies?
Yes, you can use any type of M&M candies you prefer!

3. Is it okay to double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan to ensure even baking if you double the recipe.