Introduction
Looking to sweeten up your Valentine’s Day? These delightful Valentine Cookie Bars are the perfect treat to share with your loved ones—or even to enjoy all by yourself! They’re easy to make, beautifully festive, and packed with rich flavors. Each bite of these soft, buttery bars is complemented by gooey chocolate chips and a sprinkle of festive magic, making them an irresistible addition to your celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup Valentine’s Day themed sprinkles
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. The aroma of fresh baking will soon fill your kitchen!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything is perfectly incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for that irresistible flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—don’t overwork the dough!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and the colorful Valentine’s Day sprinkles, saving a handful of sprinkles for the topping.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to get it into all the corners. Sprinkle the reserved festive sprinkles on top for a cheerful touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Get ready for the compliments!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you want to mix it up, try substituting some of the chocolate chips with white chocolate or even crushed nuts. These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, though they’re likely to disappear much faster!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugars together is a crucial step that creates air pockets in the dough, giving your cookie bars a light and tender texture. Make sure not to overmix once you add the flour, as this can lead to tougher bars. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on those edges for just the right golden hue!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Once cooled, slice and store the bars in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with your favorite mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or coconut flakes. Just remember to adjust the quantities so the dough doesn’t become overloaded.
Conclusion
These Valentine Cookie Bars are a wonderful way to bring some sweetness into your celebrations or simply enjoy a cozy evening at home. With their soft texture and delightful festive flair, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and get baking!