Every time I make these Favorite Holiday Bars, my kitchen fills with the warm, inviting scents of butter, sugar, and chocolate. It takes me back to the many holiday seasons spent with my family, gathered around the table, ready to indulge in a delicious treat. These bars have a special place in my heart, just as I know they’ll find a spot in yours. I can still hear the laughter echoing through our home as we eagerly reached for one, or two, as we shared stories of the past year. There’s something magical about gathering with loved ones, sharing sweet bites, and creating new memories—especially during the holidays! Trust me, once you’ve made these bars, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort as I do!
How to make Favorite Holiday Bars
Ingredients
Ingredients | Amounts |
---|---|
Unsalted Butter | 1 cup, softened |
Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
Brown Sugar | 1 cup, packed |
Eggs | 2 large |
Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Chocolate Chips | 2 cups |
Nuts (optional) | 1 cup, chopped |
Powdered Sugar | for dusting (optional) |
I love adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a little extra sweetness—it’s like putting the finishing touches on a masterpiece!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me; this step is crucial for getting that perfect texture—crispy edges with a soft, chewy center!
2. Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it well with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure the bars come out easily, and you don’t want to miss out on any of that deliciousness!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup packed brown sugar until creamy and light. It’s amazing to see how the sugars blend with the butter to create a luscious base!
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Now, beat in 2 large eggs one at a time. Then add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. You’ll notice how beautifully the mixture comes together, filling your kitchen with that enticing fragrance!
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This helps to evenly mix the leavening agents and ensures that your bars rise perfectly.
6. Gradually Mix in Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those bars to remain tender and soft!
7. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Now, fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips and if you choose, 1 cup of chopped nuts. I personally love walnuts or pecans for that added crunch—they balance out the sweetness wonderfully!
8. Spread the Batter
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. You might be tempted to sneak a taste—go ahead; I won’t judge!
9. Bake!
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is a little different!
10. Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan. This is where patience plays a key role. Once they are cool, cut them into squares. I recommend taking a photo first—you’ll want to share these beauties with your friends!
Why I Love Making This Dish
These Favorite Holiday Bars hold so much nostalgia for me. They remind me of gathering around the table with my family, indulging in sweet treats while the snow gently falls outside. The laughter, the stories shared, and the joy of being together—it’s something I cherish deeply. There’s a certain comfort that comes with these bars; they evoke feelings of friendship, love, and home. Each bite brings back fond memories and creates new ones as we savor them together.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these bars—just your trusty mixing bowls, a spatula, and a good old-fashioned baking dish. But one tip I always share: keep your ingredients at room temperature for the best results! It makes all the difference.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is essential for perfect baking.
- Prepare your baking dish by greasing it well.
- Cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla for that hint of sweetness.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Combine everything gently, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using.
- Spread into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake until golden and fragrant.
- Let cool before slicing and getting ready to enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure perfection with these bars, here are some of my top tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients to help them mix together seamlessly.
- Always keep your oven at the right temperature—an oven thermometer is a handy tool if you’re unsure!
- Don’t be afraid to test different mix-ins! Dried fruits or candy bits can give your bars a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It takes them to the next level! Pair them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a cozy chai tea for the perfect treat. You can also serve them alongside a refreshing fruit salad to balance the sweetness.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just let them thaw for 10-15 minutes before diving back in. They’ll taste just as delightful!
FAQ Section
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
Yes, you can, but I highly recommend using unsalted butter for the best flavor. It really makes a difference!
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If chocolate isn’t your thing, consider tossing in butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist!
How do I adjust baking time for a smaller pan?
If you’re using a smaller pan, keep an eye on your bars as they bake, and start checking for doneness 5-10 minutes earlier.
Conclusion
These Favorite Holiday Bars have truly become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try them! Every bite is like a hug from the inside, filled with sweet goodness and memories waiting to be made. I know you’ll love them just as much as my family does! Please let me know how they turn out for you—I’m always excited to hear about your baking adventures! Enjoy every moment, and happy baking!