Soft bars with cranberries, pecans, and sprinkles, topped with white chocolate, perfect for gathering and sharing.
# Components:
→ Cookie Base
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
06 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Festive Mix-ins
09 - 1 cup white chocolate chips
10 - 3/4 cup dried cranberries
11 - 3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
12 - 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles
→ Topping
13 - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted for drizzling
14 - Extra holiday sprinkles
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, creating an overhang for easy lifting.
02 - Combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until mixture is pale and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing until fully integrated after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture until just combined.
05 - Fold in white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, chopped pecans (if desired), and holiday sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
06 - Evenly spread dough into prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center emerges mostly clean.
07 - Allow bars to cool fully in the pan on a wire rack before proceeding.
08 - Drizzle cooled bars with melted white chocolate. Scatter extra holiday sprinkles over the top.
09 - Once toppings are set, lift bars from the pan using parchment paper overhang and cut into 16 squares.
