Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

Introduction to Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic, doesn’t it? One of my favorite ways to celebrate is by baking, and these Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that captures that festive spirit. They’re not just easy to whip up; they also fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of sugar cookies and peppermint. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick solution for a busy day, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. Trust me, they’ll become a holiday staple in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

These Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars are a game-changer for your holiday baking. They come together in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for those last-minute gatherings. The combination of buttery sugar cookies and crunchy candy canes creates a delightful texture and flavor explosion. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. Who wouldn’t love a festive treat that’s as easy as it is delicious?

Ingredients for Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these festive delights. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the base of your cookie bars, providing richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: This sweetener helps create that classic sugar cookie taste and contributes to the bars’ chewy texture.
Powdered sugar: Adding this gives a touch of sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
Large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture, making your bars soft and delicious.
Vanilla extract: A must-have for flavor, it enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the cookie bars.
Almond extract: This optional ingredient brings a lovely nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie bars, it provides structure and stability.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Crushed candy canes: These add a festive crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor, making your bars truly holiday-worthy.
Hershey’s Candy Cane KISSES: These delightful chocolates melt beautifully into the bars, adding a creamy, minty surprise in every bite.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive treat that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to cut those bars!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial; it creates that airy texture we all love in sugar cookie bars.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat everything together until well combined. The extracts will infuse your bars with a delightful aroma, making your kitchen smell like a holiday wonderland!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to tough bars, and we want them soft and tender!

Step 5: Fold in Candy Canes and KISSES

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the crushed candy canes and the Hershey’s Candy Cane KISSES. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Each bite should be a delightful surprise of minty goodness!

Step 6: Spread and Bake

Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, and give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares or rectangles. Now, it’s time to enjoy the festive flavors of your Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars!

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the dough; it keeps the bars soft and tender.
Check your baking time closely to avoid overbaking; every oven is different.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. Any size works!
Hand mixer or stand mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars. A whisk can work in a pinch.
Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan is ideal, but any similar size will do.
Parchment paper: Optional, but it makes for easy cleanup and removal.
Spatula: For spreading the dough and smoothing the top.

Variations

Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap out some of the crushed candy canes for chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-mint combo.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a plant-based treat.
Different Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like peppermint or orange for a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Hot Cocoa: Serve these bars alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Festive Platter: Arrange the bars on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Ice Cream Delight: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Holiday Packaging: Wrap them in festive cellophane for a thoughtful homemade gift.

FAQs about Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars

As you embark on your baking adventure with these Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld!

What can I use instead of Hershey’s Candy Cane KISSES?

If you can’t find Candy Cane KISSES, feel free to substitute with regular chocolate KISSES or even white chocolate chips. You’ll still get a delicious treat, just with a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover bars?

Store any leftover Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and make sure the bars are completely cooled. You can also run the knife under hot water, then dry it off before cutting for an even smoother slice.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Candy Cane KISS Sugar Cookie Bars is more than just baking; it’s about sharing joy and warmth during the holiday season. The delightful combination of buttery sweetness and refreshing peppermint brings back memories of festive gatherings and laughter. Each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, like cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or gifting them to friends, these bars are sure to spread cheer. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let these treats become a cherished part of your celebrations!