Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Name: Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 ½ cups light brown sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 ½ cups red, white, and blue M&Ms

Recipe By:

Juliette

Posted:

June 4, 2025

Updated:

June 4, 2025

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These Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are perfect for celebrating any patriotic occasion. With their vibrant colors, chewy texture, and delightful sweetness, these cookie bars are a hit with both kids and adults alike. They are simple to make, making them ideal for gatherings like Fourth of July parties, Memorial Day picnics, or even just a fun family baking day. Enjoy the blend of flavors as the M&Ms add pops of color and taste in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for Occasions: These cookie bars are great for holidays, parties, or any festive gathering—your guests will love them!
Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of ingredients creates a soft and chewy treat that melts in your mouth.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out M&Ms or add nuts for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in baking these colorful bars; they’ll enjoy mixing and decorating!

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into the delicious details of the recipe, gather your tools to make the baking process smooth. Having everything ready will help you create these cookie bars without hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula
Baking sheet (17×12-inch)
Nonstick cooking spray
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spillage.
Rubber spatula: This tool is perfect for folding in ingredients gently without overmixing the dough.
Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet prevents overflow and helps cook the cookie bars evenly.

Ingredients

These cookie bars have red white and blue M&M’s studded throughout for a patriotic M&M cookie recipe! Everyone loves these soft chewy American cookies!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/2 cups red, white and blue M&M’s

How to Make Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a large rimmed baking sheet (17×12-inch) with nonstick spray (I recommend Baker’s Joy).

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 1 minute). Beat in the vanilla extract and the eggs, mixing well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Once combined, fold in 2 cups of the red, white and blue M&M’s.

Step 4: Spread Dough into Baking Sheet

Using a large rubber spatula, spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet. The dough may appear thin if using a very large pan; it will puff up during baking. Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of M&M’s over the top and lightly press them into the dough.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for approximately 20 to 30 minutes until they reach your desired doneness and edges are golden. Be careful not to overbake! Once done, let cool completely.

Step 6: Serve

To serve, cut into squares using a plastic knife for clean edges. Enjoy your delightful Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

These delightful Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion, especially patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will make your dessert even more enjoyable.

With Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing; the creamy texture balances the chewy cookie bars.
Strawberry Sorbet – Offers a fruity contrast that enhances the red, white, and blue theme.

As Party Favors

Individually Wrapped Bars – Cut into squares and wrap each piece in colorful cellophane for a festive touch.
Cookie Bar Platter – Arrange the bars on a decorative platter with fresh berries for a beautiful display.

Accompanied by Beverages

Milkshakes – Blend up some vanilla or chocolate milkshakes to complement these sweet treats.
Sparkling Lemonade – A refreshing drink that adds a citrusy zing to your dessert experience.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Whipped Cream Dollop – Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
Fresh Berries – Top with strawberries or blueberries for added freshness and color.

How to Perfect Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

To ensure your Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Check for Doneness Early – Start checking your cookie bars at 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Let Them Cool Completely – Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting for cleaner edges.
Store Properly – Keep leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some tasty options.

Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that complements the sweetness of cookie bars.
Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses can balance the sweetness with savory flavors.
Mini Cupcakes – Offer a variety of mini cupcakes for guests who love different flavors.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels – Sweet and salty treats that provide a crunchy texture alongside the chewy bars.
Popsicles – Fun, frozen treats that add a playful element, especially in warm weather.
Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy dessert option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home bakers make simple mistakes that can affect the outcome of their Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugars, leading to dense cookie bars. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, making the bars tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for softer cookie bars.
Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your baking sheet can cause the cookie bars to stick. Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can result in dry cookie bars. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off.
Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at a temperature that’s too high or too low can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
For best results, slice the bars before freezing for easy serving later.

Reheating Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual bars for 10-15 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are done?

You can tell they are done when the edges start to turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked but will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I customize my Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even different types of candies if you want a unique twist on this recipe.

What is the best way to cut my cookie bars?

Using a plastic knife helps prevent sticking and keeps your cuts clean. Wait until they have cooled completely before cutting.

Can I use other colors of M&M’s for different holidays?

Yes! Feel free to use seasonal M&M’s like pastel colors for Easter or red and green for Christmas!

How should I store leftover cookie bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you want them lasting longer.

Final Thoughts

These Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion, especially patriotic celebrations. Their chewy texture combined with colorful M&M’s makes them appealing to all ages. Experiment with different mix-ins or toppings to customize them further. Give this fun recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!