Christmas Magic Cookie Bars: 7 Festive Layers of Joy

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Christmas Magic Cookie Bars are the perfect festive treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. These delightful bars combine a graham cracker crust, layers of chocolate, butterscotch, and coconut, all topped with colorful M&Ms. It’s a sweet, comforting dessert that your family and friends will love, making them a must-have for any holiday gathering. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will surely bring joy to your festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

These Christmas Magic Cookie Bars are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to make. Here are a few reasons why you will adore this recipe:

Quick to prepare—perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Versatile—customize with your favorite toppings.
Crowd-pleaser—everyone loves the sweet, rich flavors.
Great for gifting—make a batch for friends or neighbors.
Easy to store—keeps well for days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
Kid-friendly—fun to make with little helpers in the kitchen.

This recipe falls under the category of Easy Christmas Dessert Bars, making it ideal for anyone looking to whip up something special during the holidays!

Ingredients for Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

Gather these items:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 200 g)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (115 g, melted)
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz – Eagle Brand)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Toll House)
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
1/2 cup M&Ms (red and green)
Fine salt (a pinch)

How to Make Christmas Magic Cookie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy bar removal.
Step 2: Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand, then press firmly into the pan and chill for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the chilled crust, tilting the pan so it coats every corner.
Step 4: Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in an even layer on top of the condensed milk.
Step 5: Evenly distribute shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and M&Ms over the chip layers, pressing lightly so they stick.
Step 6: Bake for 18–22 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is gently bubbling.
Step 7: Allow bars to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then chill 1–2 hours for cleaner cuts before lifting out and slicing into 16 squares.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
These bars can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference.
For a twist, try adding peppermint extract during the mixing stage.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

These bars are delightful on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Top with whipped cream for a festive touch.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

To keep your Christmas Magic Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Magic Cookie Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Magic Cookie Bars?

The secret lies in the balance of layers! Ensure each layer is evenly spread and well-pressed to create a perfect bite of flavor in every square. Use quality chocolate chips for rich flavor.

Can I make Christmas Magic Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly to maintain freshness. They actually taste better after resting as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Magic Cookie Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overbake them. They should be slightly underbaked in the center as they will continue to set while cooling. Also, use the right size pan for even cooking.

Variations of Christmas Magic Cookie Bars You Can Try

Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations:

Add crushed peppermint candies for a minty twist.
Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter taste.
Incorporate different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
Swap out the M&Ms for seasonal sprinkles to match your holiday décor!

For more delicious holiday treats, check out our Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies or Peppermint Meringue Cookies. You can also explore White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan for a festive flavor combination!