Bakes sales. Church potlucks. Classroom treats. What do these things have in common? Sometimes you just need something quick to whip up for these events. Something faster than cookies, but a treat that still looks and taste great. These bars (sans M&Ms) made an appearance in my daughter's classroom on her birthday this year. (These are much easier to transport than cupcakes which is an added bonus.)
I particular love the edge pieces of these bars and did in fact claim a corner piece all to myself when my son and I made these today for a bake sale the kids had this afternoon. (Okay, so maybe I snitched some from the soft middle part too.)
Chocolate Chip M&M Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
2 cups plus 2 tablespoons (10 5/8 ounces) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 cup (7 ounces) packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
3/4 cups M&Ms (divided)
Directions:
1. Adjust the oven rack to lower-middle position. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix the flour, salt, and baking soda together in a medium bowl; set aside. In a large bowl mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a wooden spoon until well combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla and mix well. Add the dry ingredients, chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of M&Ms and stir just until combined. (Do not overmix.) Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of M&Ms on top and gently press into the batter.
3. Bake until the top of the bars is light golden brown, slightly firm to the touch, and edges start pulling away from sides of pan, 24-29 minutes. Cool on a wire rack to room temperature.
Source: adapted from Cooks's Illustrated via Mel's Kitchen Cafe and Brown Eyed Baker
