Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are the ultimate patriotic treat—perfect for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any summer celebration. These soft, chewy bars are loaded with festive M&M’s and white chocolate chips, making them both colorful and irresistibly delicious. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re ideal for sharing at parties or packing for a picnic.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking sodasaltunsalted butterbrown sugarsugarvanilla extracteggsyellow box vanilla instant pudding mixred, white, and blue M&M’swhite chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

Mix in the dry pudding mix until incorporated.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Fold in most of the M&M’s and white chocolate chips, reserving some for topping.

Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan and press the remaining M&M’s and chips on top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set.

Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookie bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 70–75 minutes

Variations

Use milk or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Add sprinkles for extra festivity.

Swap M&M colors for different holidays or themes.

Mix in chopped nuts for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.For longer storage, refrigerate up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular M&M’s instead of themed ones?

Yes, you can use any M&M variety you like.

Do I need to use pudding mix?

The pudding mix adds softness and flavor but can be omitted if needed.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch pan works best for even baking.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The edges should be golden, and the center just set—not jiggly.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap tightly and thaw before serving.

Why use both brown and white sugar?

The combination creates a soft texture and balanced sweetness.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine works in a pinch.

Are these bars good for picnics?

Absolutely, they travel well and don’t melt easily.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or make two batches.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for patriotic holidays or any occasion that calls for a little sweetness and color. Quick to prepare and full of fun flavors, they’re a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Make a batch and watch them disappear!

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