Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Hey there, wonderful readers! As the holiday season approaches, I find myself filled with immense gratitude for all the joy and warmth this time of year brings. One of my absolute favorite ways to spread cheer is through baking, and today, I have an extra special treat for you. Picture this: rich, creamy cheesecake nestled between layers of chocolate chip cookie dough, all studded with festive Christmas M&Ms. These Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars are anything but boring!! They’re the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts and are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
• 1 cup Christmas mix M&Ms, divided
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

this Recipe

How to Make Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later. This will make it so much easier to lift the bars out once they’ve baked and cooled.

Step 2: Cookie Dough Layer

Take your refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough and press half of it into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. This will be the base of your cheesecake bars, providing that delightful cookie crunch.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt, and continue beating until well combined. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until the filling is smooth and homogeneous.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cookie dough layer in the pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle half of the Christmas M&Ms over the cheesecake layer. Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the M&Ms and cheesecake filling, and sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set. The smell when this is in the oven is incredible!! Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Helpful Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer.
• Even Layers: Press the cookie dough evenly and spread the cheesecake layer smoothly to ensure even baking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.

Substitutions/Variations

• M&Ms: While the Christmas mix M&Ms add a festive touch, you can use any seasonal M&Ms or your favorite variety.
• Cookie Dough: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cookie dough, such as peanut butter or sugar cookie, for a fun twist.
• Add-ins: Consider adding crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist, or chopped nuts for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cookie dough?

Absolutely! If you prefer making your own cookie dough, go for it. Just make sure to use about 16 oz of dough.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How long will these bars last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Storage Instructions

Keep your Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert for your holiday celebrations.

More Relevant Recipes

Looking for more festive treats to add to your holiday baking list? Check out these delicious recipes:

• Christmas Lasagna
• Christmas Oreo Truffles
• Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Thank you for joining me on this baking adventure! I hope these Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars bring as much joy to your home as they do to mine. Happy baking, and happy holidays!

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