Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are chewy, buttery, and loaded with festive color and chocolatey goodness. These easy-to-make dessert bars are perfect for patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. With simple prep, a soft center, and a golden edge, these cookie bars are an effortless crowd-pleaser for parties, BBQs, or summer get-togethers.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
red, white, and blue M&M’s
patriotic sprinkles (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully incorporated.

Fold in chocolate chips (if using) and most of the M&M’s, reserving a handful for topping.

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle the remaining M&M’s and sprinkles over the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: 1.5 hours

Variations

Use white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and color contrast.
Add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the dough for a richer flavor.
Make them gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Swap M&M’s with patriotic-colored chocolate candies or coated pretzel bits.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheat individual bars in the microwave for 5–10 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

For best results, use homemade dough, but you can use store-bought and press M&M’s on top before baking.

Can I use different-sized pans?

Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly—smaller pans will require more time.

Can I make them in advance?

Yes, they keep well and taste great even a day or two after baking.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling required—just mix and bake.

How do I get clean slices?

Let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping between cuts.

Are these chewy or cakey?

They’re chewy in the center with lightly crisp edges.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or bake in two batches.

Can I leave out the chocolate chips?

Absolutely—the M&M’s provide plenty of chocolate flavor on their own.

Do I need to use sprinkles?

No, they’re optional but add fun texture and visual appeal.

Can kids help make these?

Yes, it’s a simple recipe that’s great for little hands to help mix and decorate.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are a colorful, festive dessert that’s easy to bake and perfect for patriotic celebrations. Soft, chewy, and full of chocolatey goodness, these bars bring fun and flavor to any party table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday BBQ or just want a sweet summertime treat, these cookie bars are sure to be a hit.

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