If you’re looking for an easy dessert that packs a punch of flavor and color, Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars are the perfect choice. These bars combine the simplicity of a cake mix with the fun crunch of M&M’s, making them an instant hit for any occasion. Whether it’s a last-minute treat or a planned celebration, this recipe is a lifesaver for anyone short on time but big on taste.
Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert hack for busy bakers. These bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with the colorful crunch of M&M candies. They’re easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples, and they’re versatile enough to suit any holiday or event.
Ingredients
- Yellow cake mix
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- M&Ms (red and green)
HOw to Make Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars
Set your oven to 350°F. Prepare your pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, and oil until you get a dough.
Add the M&Ms and stir them in. Spread the mixture in your pan, pressing it to the edges.
Bake for 25-28 minutes until the bars are golden and fully cooked. Let them cool. Slice into bars.
The Perfect Cake Mix
Not all cake mixes are created equal, and the type you choose can make a big difference. For Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars, yellow cake mix is the gold standard. It offers a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the M&Ms. Plus, its neutral profile lets the candy shine without overwhelming the taste.
But what if you’re feeling adventurous? Other cake mix flavors like chocolate or vanilla can work, too. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, depending on the brand and type. If you want to experiment further with creative cake mix ideas, check out how others have used mixes in recipes like Vanilla Chai Tea Latte Cupcakes.
Variations and Additions
Different Types of M&Ms
One of the simplest ways to change up your Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars is by experimenting with different M&M varieties. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture.
Seasonal Colors: You can go for holiday-specific M&Ms, like red, white, and blue for a Fourth of July treat. Check out how Patriotic M&M Brownies use this idea for festive fun.
Peanut M&Ms: Love a little crunch? Peanut M&Ms add a nutty texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, chewy bars.
Peanut Butter M&Ms: These are a dream for peanut butter fans, giving a rich and creamy twist.
Mini M&Ms: Perfect if you want smaller bursts of color and chocolate in every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking cookie bars should be stress-free, but small missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
Uneven M&M Distribution Stir the M&Ms gently and evenly throughout the dough. This ensures every bite has a pop of color and chocolatey goodness.
Overmixing the Dough Stirring too much can make the bars dense and tough. Once the ingredients are combined, stop mixing to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Skipping the Parchment Paper Forgetting to line your pan can make it difficult to remove the bars without breaking them. Parchment paper ensures clean edges and easy lifting.
Baking Too Long Overbaking dries out the cookie bars. Keep a close eye on the timer and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Can I Freeze Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy them over a longer period.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool to room temperature first. Freezing while warm can lead to excess moisture buildup.
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Use Freezer Bags or Containers: Place the individually wrapped bars into a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container.
- Label the Package: Add a label with the date so you can keep track of storage time.
Properly stored, Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour.
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Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars
Equipment
- Large bowl and silicone spoon
- 11×7 brownie pan (may use other size, but alter baking time)
Ingredients
- 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup M&Ms red and green
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Grease your pan, or line with parchment paper.
- Add the cake mix, eggs, and oil to a large bowl and stir to combine, until a dough forms.
- Stir in the M&Ms.
- Pour into your prepared pan, press the mixture against the sides. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until cookie bars are golden and baked through.
- Allow to cool.
- Cut into bars.
