Holiday Bars (Crowd-Pleaser)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional: walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
  • Line a 9ร—13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.

2. Prepare the Base:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
  • Stir in vanilla extract.

3. Combine Ingredients:

  • Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
  • Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, and dried fruit if using.

4. Bake:

  • Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 25โ€“30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and Cut:

  • Let bars cool completely in the pan.
  • Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips:

  • For a festive twist, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle powdered sugar on top.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
  • You can double the recipe if making for a large crowd like during Christmas!