Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional Mix-Ins: 1 cup chocolate chips, ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), ½ cup dried cranberries, or festive M&Ms
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Add Mix-Ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, dried cranberries, or M&Ms for festive color and flavor.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Make it Festive: Sprinkle extra M&Ms on top for added holiday cheer!
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Calories: 210