Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a sweet indulgence. These delightful bars combine the rich flavors of Oreos with colorful M&Ms, bringing together two crowd favorites into one delicious dessert. Perfectly chewy and wonderfully decadent, they offer an explosion of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookie bars will not disappoint. The best part? They come together quickly and easily without any complicated processes. In just a short time, you can whip up a batch of these loaded delights that will have everyone asking for seconds. With their eye-catching colors and irresistible taste, these Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for the base; it adds creaminess without extra salt.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar provides moisture and enhances sweetness with its caramel notes.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the richness of the butter.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth of flavor and aroma to the bars.
- Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together while contributing to the texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use regular all-purpose flour for the perfect chewy texture.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the bars rise as they bake.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in this sweet treat.
- Oreos: Crush Oreos into pieces for a delicious chocolate flavor throughout.
- M&Ms: Use your favorite colors of M&Ms for added fun and sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Mix in vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Oreos and M&Ms
Gently fold in crushed Oreos and half of the M&Ms into the dough until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the cookie dough evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining M&Ms on top before baking. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Transfer to plates and allow cooling before cutting into squares for serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing results.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars.
- Baking Time Adjustment: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; ovens can vary in actual temperature.
- Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle more Oreos or M&Ms on top before baking for an extra indulgent treat.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
How to Serve Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
This Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the rich, chocolatey flavor of the bars.
- Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the chewy cookie bars, creating a delightful dessert experience.
- Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the bars, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars batter up to one day in advance. Simply mix all ingredients and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds until warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5 minutes, ensuring they retain their chewy texture.
Suggestions for Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
Avoid Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can lead to tough and dry cookie bars. When combining your ingredients, mix until just combined. This ensures a tender texture that keeps your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars soft and chewy. Use a spatula or wooden spoon for the best results, and stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour or powdered sugar. Remember that some lumps are okay; they will dissolve during baking. Keeping this in mind will enhance the overall quality of your dessert.
Choose Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars. Opt for fresh eggs, real butter, and premium chocolate chips. The flavors of these ingredients will shine through in your cookie bars, leading to a more satisfying experience. For the Oreos, choose classic varieties as they provide the perfect balance between chocolate and creaminess. Remember that every ingredient contributes significantly to the final taste, so don’t skimp on quality.
Allow Proper Cooling Time
After baking your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars, allow them to cool completely before cutting them into squares. If you slice them too soon, they may crumble and fall apart. Patience is key here; cooling allows them to set properly and maintain their shape. Place the pan on a wire rack to cool more evenly and quickly. This step is essential for achieving those perfect, Instagram-worthy cookie bars that hold together beautifully.
Customize Your Mix-Ins
Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins! While M&Ms and Oreos are fantastic choices, consider adding nuts, caramel bits, or even peanut butter chips for an extra layer of flavor in your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars. Just keep in mind not to overload the batter with too many extras, which can affect the consistency of the bars. Stick to two or three types of mix-ins for a balanced flavor profile while still keeping it fun and exciting.
FAQs
What can I substitute for Oreos in Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars?
If you want to substitute Oreos in your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars, consider using other sandwich cookies like chocolate wafers or even homemade chocolate cookies if you’re feeling adventurous. These alternatives will still provide that delightful crunch and creaminess similar to Oreos. Keep in mind that using different types of cookies may alter the flavor slightly but can also introduce new taste sensations into your dessert.
How do I store my Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars?
To store your Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars properly, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between each layer of bars to prevent sticking and maintain freshness. You can keep them at room temperature for up to four days or refrigerate them for up to a week for longer shelf life. If you want to store them even longer, consider freezing individual bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil.
Can I make Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars ahead of time is a great idea for parties or gatherings. You can prepare the bars a day or two in advance; just ensure proper storage once they have cooled completely. If you’re making them even earlier than that, you can freeze unbaked dough in advance as well. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking when you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats.
What’s the best way to serve Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars?
The best way to serve Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars is warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat! Alternatively, you could drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel sauce over each bar before serving for added flair and sweetness. Cut them into large squares for sharing or smaller pieces if you prefer bite-sized delights—either way, they are sure to impress!
Conclusion for Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that everyone loves. By avoiding common mistakes like overmixing and opting for quality ingredients, you’ll create irresistible bars that stand out at any gathering. Allowing adequate cooling time ensures they cut perfectly while customizing mix-ins gives each batch its unique twist. Store leftovers properly so you can savor these treats long after baking day. With proper preparation and creativity, these cookie bars will become a favorite dessert option in your home!
Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers, combining the rich, chocolatey goodness of Oreos with the colorful crunch of M&Ms. These chewy, decadent bars are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress both kids and adults alike. The vibrant colors and delightful flavors make these cookie bars not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Ready in no time, you’ll find it hard to resist coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 15 crushed Oreos
- 1 cup M&Ms (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in crushed Oreos and half of the M&Ms.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared dish and top with remaining M&Ms.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling before cutting into squares.
Notes
– Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
– Customize your mix-ins by adding nuts or caramel bits.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
