St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a festive, fun twist to your dessert table, you have to try this St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe. These cookie bars are a delightful blend of soft, chewy sweetness with pops of vibrant green M&M’s and melty chocolate chips that scream celebration. Perfectly simple to whip up, they capture the spirit of St Patrick’s Day in every bite and quickly become an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a treat that’s a little more cheerful, these cookie bars will not disappoint!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial to the success of this recipe, each contributing to the flavor, texture, and those festive green accents that make these cookie bars truly special.

• ½ cup unsalted sweet cream butter (softened): Provides rich moisture and a tender crumb to the bars.
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds natural sweetness and a hint of caramel depth.
• ¼ cup sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with browning.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and brings moisture to the dough.
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the entire flavor profile with warmth and sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise to the perfect texture.
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for a light, tender bite.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone for structure in the cookie bars.
• ¾ cup green M&M’s: Provide festive color and a satisfying crunch.
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Add melty richness and chocolatey goodness in every bite.

How to Make St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for perfect baking. Then, line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bars easy after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a standing mixer, beat together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is key because creaming incorporates air into the batter, resulting in softer cookie bars.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. These wet ingredients help bind your dough while giving it that classic cookie flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any bitter pockets or uneven rising.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing carefully until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, or your bars could turn out dense.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M’s

Gently fold the green M&M’s and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough. This is the fun part where the vibrant green candies and melty chocolate promise delight in every bite.

Step 7: Press Dough into Pan and Add Toppings

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle a few more M&M’s and chocolate chips on top. This not only looks inviting but adds extra texture and festive color on the surface.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake the cookie bars in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the center is just set. Keep an eye on them for that perfect chewy-soft texture.

Step 9: Cool Completely Before Cutting

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares. This step is essential to let the bars set, ensuring clean cuts without crumbling.

How to Serve St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can add a pretty finishing touch to your cookie bars, making them even more festive and enticing for St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookie bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of warm Irish cream coffee to elevate your dessert experience into something truly indulgent and cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange the bars on a bright green platter with shamrock-shaped mint leaves or edible gold sprinkles. You can also stack them on a tiered dessert stand to create an eye-catching centerpiece that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Keeping them sealed helps retain their chewy texture and delicious flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooled bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and taste.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy these bars warm, pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat briefly in a low oven. Warm bars with melted chocolate chips are simply irresistible!

FAQs

Can I use regular M&M’s instead of green ones?

Absolutely! While green M&M’s make the bars perfect for St Patrick’s Day, any color or even plain chocolate chips will work just fine if you want to customize the look.

Do these cookie bars need to be refrigerated?

These bars do not require refrigeration. Storing them in an airtight container at room temperature is best to keep them soft and chewy.

Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can substitute with a dairy-free butter spread, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture. Look for one suitable for baking to get the best result.

How should I cut the bars to get even pieces?

To get neat, even bars, use a large sharp knife and cut gently once the bars have cooled completely. Wiping the knife clean between cuts helps prevent crumbling.

Can I add nuts to this St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor contrast. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips and M&M’s.

Final Thoughts

This St Patrick’s Day Cookie Bars Recipe is a joyful way to celebrate with something homemade, festive, and totally delicious. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and sure to become a go-to for your celebrations year after year. I seriously can’t wait for you to try it and see how these cheerful cookie bars bring smiles to every table!

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