Easter M&M Cookie Bars are the ultimate springtime treat—chewy, buttery cookie bars packed with pastel-colored M&Ms that melt slightly into golden dough for the perfect soft bite. These bars bring joy in every square, combining the classic charm of cookies with the ease of a bar recipe, perfect for casual gatherings, Easter brunches, or sweet little gifts wrapped in ribbons.

Their colorful, candy-studded look makes them a festive favorite with kids and adults alike. Imagine the flavor of your favorite chocolate chip cookie, but richer, denser, and easier to make in one pan. No scooping, no batches—just one big, beautiful bake that fills the kitchen with the scent of vanilla, brown sugar, and celebration.

Ingredients for Easter M&M Cookie Bars

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1½ cups pastel Easter M&Ms (plus extra for topping)
Optional: ½ cup white chocolate chips for extra sweetness

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This ensures easy removal and clean edges when cutting the bars later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy and light in color—about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix again until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and silky.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

Step 5: Fold in M&Ms

Gently fold in the pastel M&Ms (and white chocolate chips, if using). Reserve a handful to press on top for a colorful finish.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Press the reserved M&Ms into the surface. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps them set and makes cutting easier without crumbling.

Estimated Nutrition (per bar, assuming 24 bars total)

Calories: ~210 kcal
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 19g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: <1g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 90mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of M&Ms should I use for this recipe?

Pastel-colored Easter M&Ms are best for the festive look, but you can use any variety—milk chocolate, peanut butter, or even crispy.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure other ingredients like M&Ms are gluten-free too.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs—don’t wait for it to come out clean.

Can I use different candy or mix-ins?

Absolutely! Swap M&Ms for chopped chocolate, sprinkles, or mini eggs. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

No, they stay fresh at room temperature for several days. Only refrigerate if your kitchen is particularly warm or humid.

How do I make the bars chewier or crispier?

For chewier bars, don’t overbake. If you prefer crispier edges, bake a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid drying them out.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double it and bake in a larger sheet pan. Adjust the baking time slightly and check for doneness in the center.

What size should I cut the bars?

Cut them into 24 small squares for bite-sized treats or 12 large bars for a heartier dessert portion.

Easter M&M Cookie Bars Recipe

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 29 minute
Yield: 24 bars

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re looking for a cheerful, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these Easter M&M Cookie Bars are just the treat! With soft, buttery dough packed full of pastel-colored M&Ms, this easy recipe makes a festive addition to your spring baking list. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast sweet bite, an easy recipe for Easter brunch, or some new dessert food ideas for a potluck, these cookie bars deliver delicious results every time.

They offer a golden, chewy center and slightly crisp edges, bursting with chocolate and sprinkled with color. This treat is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying—perfect for those who love simple, homemade desserts with a seasonal twist. These are your go-to dessert bars for everything from birthday parties to fun family baking sessions.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Fold in the M&Ms and optional white chocolate chips.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and press a few extra M&Ms on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden on the edges and just set in the center.
Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Category: Dessert