Introduction
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your love than with a batch of delightful cookie bars? These Easy Valentine Cookie Bars are not only incredibly simple to make, but they also bring a beautiful pop of color and sweetness that will charm anyone’s heart. With rich chocolate flavors and a touch of whimsy from the pink and red candies, these cookie bars are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or that special someone. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup pink and red chocolate candies (such as M&Ms)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 squares
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent any sticky situations.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy, enjoying the sweet aroma wafting from the bowl.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is beautifully combined and the mixture is glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until everything is just incorporated — be careful not to overmix!
- Now comes the fun part! Fold in the pink and red chocolate candies along with the white chocolate chips, distributing the vibrant colors evenly throughout the batter.
- Spread the delightful cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The heavenly scent will fill your kitchen!
- Once baked, allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This will make them easier to handle and even more delicious!
Notes or Tips
For the best texture, make sure your butter is melted but not hot when mixing. Feel free to swap out the pink and red candies for any seasonal or favorite chocolate candies you have on hand. These bars can be enjoyed fresh or stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for batch baking ahead of celebrations!
Cooking Techniques
When making cookie bars, mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, giving you that perfect lift and chew. Remember, the key to tender cookie bars is to mix until just combined after adding the flour — this helps maintain a soft and chewy texture!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookie bars? Absolutely! Once cut into squares, place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between, and they will last up to three months in the freezer.
What can I substitute for the eggs? For a vegan option, consider using flax eggs or applesauce to help bind the mixture.
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend!
Conclusion
These Easy Valentine Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they are a heartfelt gift straight from your kitchen. The combination of delicious flavors and cheerful colors makes them irresistible. Bake a batch to share, and let the love-filled aromas fill your home. Happy baking, and may your Valentine’s Day be full of sweetness and joy!