Christmas Cookie Bars are a festive and easy-to-make holiday dessert that combines the flavors of a classic sugar cookie with colorful sprinkles, white chocolate, and seasonal cheer. These soft, chewy bars are perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a mug of hot cocoa. Their vibrant appearance and rich flavor make them a holiday favorite.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

flour
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
baking powder
salt
red and green sprinkles
white chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Add in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the white chocolate chips and festive sprinkles.

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 60-65 minutes

Variations

Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.
Add crushed peppermint candies for a minty twist.
Top with a drizzle of melted chocolate or festive icing.
Mix in chopped nuts for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store Christmas Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To enjoy warm, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives better texture and flavor.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I use different sprinkles?
Absolutely—use any festive sprinkles you like.

Why are my bars too dry?
Be sure not to overbake them; check at 25 minutes.

Can I add frosting?
Yes, a layer of vanilla or cream cheese frosting is delicious.

Do these bars travel well?
Yes, they hold their shape and are great for gifting or potlucks.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Definitely—bake up to 2 days in advance and store airtight.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, a hand mixer or even a sturdy spoon works fine.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan or two pans and adjust baking time accordingly.

What type of chocolate is best?
White chocolate pairs beautifully with the holiday flavors, but any type works.

Conclusion

Christmas Cookie Bars are an easy, festive, and crowd-pleasing dessert that brings the joy of the season to your kitchen. With their chewy texture, colorful sprinkles, and sweet chocolate chips, they’re a guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering. Make a batch and share the holiday spirit—one delicious square at a time.