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If you’re anything like me, you adore the simple joys of baking, especially when it promises a colorful treat at the end without a sink full of dishes. So, I’m excited to share with you a family-loved shortcut to deliciousness: M&M Magic Cake Mix Cookie Bars.
These bars are my go-to when I’m short on time but craving something homemade. They’re the perfect mash-up of soft, chewy cookie and rainbow-bright M&Ms – and they’re so easy, it almost feels like cheating. You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools, a box of yellow cake mix, and of course, those irresistible M&Ms (I’m partial to the red and green ones for that pop of color).
Think of this as less of a recipe and more like a fun little project that you, the kids, or even the not-so-bake-savvy partner can tackle on a lazy Sunday afternoon. It’s all the love and flavor of homemade treats, with a fraction of the effort. And trust me, when they come out of the oven golden and tempting, you’ll be the hero of the dessert world.
So preheat that oven, and let’s bake some magic together! And hey, if you’re eager for more easy-peasy recipes that make life a little sweeter, drop your email below. I promise to only send the good stuff.
Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes, plus cooling
Tools Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Silicone spoon or spatula
- 11×7 inch brownie pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)
- Measuring cups
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
- Knife or cookie cutter (for cutting the bars)
- Airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients:
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup M&Ms (preferably red and green for a pop of color)
Instructions:
Starting the Mix: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 2 large eggs and ½ cup of vegetable oil. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and a thick batter forms.
Adding the M&Ms: Gently fold in 1 cup of M&Ms into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout.
Prepping the Pan: Grease an 11×7 brownie pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Ensure your pan is ready before you begin to pour in the batter.
Ready to Bake: Pour the cookie bar batter into the prepared pan, using a silicone spoon or spatula to press the mixture evenly into the corners.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and bake the mixture for 25-28 minutes. The cookie bars should be golden and set when they’re ready.
Cooling Down (Process 6.jpg): Allow the baked cookie bars to cool in the pan before slicing. This ensures they hold their shape and don’t crumble.
The Final Cut : Once cool, cut the cookie bars into even squares and serve.
Cooking Tips
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your cookie bars are perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done. Keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
- Even M&M Distribution: After adding the M&Ms to the batter, fold them in gently but thoroughly to ensure an even spread throughout the bars. This prevents all your M&Ms from sinking to the bottom or clustering in one area.
- Parchment Paper Sling: Use a sling of parchment paper in your pan, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift out the entire batch of cookie bars at once for seamless cutting.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate more evenly into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
Adapting the Recipe
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Be sure to check that your M&Ms and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Vegan Adaptation: For a vegan version, use a plant-based yellow cake mix and replace the eggs with an appropriate vegan substitute, such as flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based M&Ms or similar vegan-friendly candy.
- Mix-In Variations: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins. Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can add texture and flavor. Customize the cookie bars according to the season or occasion.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Ice Cream Sandwich Bars: Once cooled and cut, use the cookie bars to make ice cream sandwiches. Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two bars and press gently. Freeze until firm for a delightful treat.
- Dessert Platter: Create a dessert platter by cutting the bars into smaller pieces and arranging them with other treats like brownie bites, mini cupcakes, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Bar Sundae: Crumble a cookie bar over a bowl of ice cream, add a dollop of whipped cream, and sprinkle on some extra M&Ms or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent bar sundae.
- Gift Boxes: Package the cookie bars in cute boxes or mason jars for a sweet homemade gift. Add a ribbon and a personalized tag for a special touch.
These tips and ideas can help you make the most out of your M&M Magic Cake Mix Cookie Bars, whether you’re looking to adapt the recipe to dietary needs, or simply aiming to impress with creative presentation and serving suggestions.