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Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Christmas M&M Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet Christmas M&M cookie cheesecake bars blend festive cookie crunch with creamy cheesecake magic. Rich holiday dessert layers melt-in-your-mouth goodness that sparks joy on your holiday table and delights guests with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (16 ounces / 454 grams) package refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
  • 1 cup Christmas mix M&Ms
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese

Baking Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C) and positioning a parchment paper liner in an 8×8-inch baking pan with extended edges for convenient removal.
  2. Carefully distribute half of the chocolate chip cookie dough across the pan’s bottom, ensuring a uniform and compact base layer.
  3. Utilize a medium mixing bowl to transform cream cheese into a silky smooth texture through vigorous beating.
  4. Incorporate granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt into the cream cheese, mixing until the ingredients merge into a harmonious blend.
  5. Introduce egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, whisking until the filling achieves a luxurious, velvety consistency.
  6. Gently cascade the cheesecake filling over the cookie dough foundation, spreading it evenly to create a balanced layer.
  7. Artfully scatter the first portion of Christmas M&Ms across the cheesecake surface, creating a festive mosaic.
  8. Delicately crumble the remaining cookie dough over the M&M-studded cheesecake layer, generating a rustic, textured topping.
  9. Complete the decoration by sprinkling the final batch of M&Ms across the surface, ensuring colorful distribution.
  10. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the top turns golden and the cheesecake sets firmly.
  11. After removing from the oven, allow the dessert to cool completely on a wire rack, letting the layers stabilize and flavors meld.
  12. Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 2 hours to achieve clean, precise cutting lines and optimal serving texture.

Notes

  • Swap regular chocolate chip cookie dough with gluten-free or vegan alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Chill cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
  • Use silicone baking pan for easier removal and more even baking if parchment paper isn’t available.
  • Adjust baking time slightly for darker or lighter pans to prevent over or undercooking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg