Name: Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492232H34M52S
Total time: PT-492232H34M52S
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow or white cake mix; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup (175 g) pastel M&Ms, plus 1/4 cup (45 g) for topping; 2 to 3 tablespoons pastel sprinkles (optional), plus extra for topping

Welcome to the delightful world of baking with our Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars recipe! This scrumptious dessert is perfect for celebrating the freshness and colors of spring with its vibrant pastel hues and delightful softness. Whether you have a spring party to attend or want to whip up some festive treats for your family, these cookie bars are sure to impress. Using a simple box of yellow or white cake mix, this recipe is not only easy but also quick to prepare, making baking a breeze even if you’re pressed for time. Ideal for novice bakers and seasoned dessert makers alike, these bars combine the fun of baking with the joy of celebration.

What makes these cookie bars truly shine is their chewy texture, bursting with the sweetness of pastel M&Ms and the light crunch of sprinkles. Each bite offers a comforting sweetness with a colorful surprise, appealing to both the eyes and the palate. These bars evoke nostalgia while also serving as a creative spin on traditional cake and cookie recipes. The pastel colors reflect the spirit of Easter, creating a visually appealing dessert that is both fun to make and eat. Gather your friends and family around, enjoy the conviviality of baking together, and indulge in the cheerful treats that these bars promise.

Why You’ll Love This Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars

Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients and preparation time, perfect for busy schedules.
Festive & Fun: Colorful M&Ms and sprinkles make these bars a hit at any gathering.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your favorite candies or sprinkles for a unique twist.
Perfect for Sharing: Makes a generous batch ideal for sharing at parties or family gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, ensure your kitchen is ready for a seamless baking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to save time later. Have a 9×13-inch baking dish on hand and either line it with parchment paper or grease it with cooking spray to ease the removal process once the bars are baked. Using parchment paper with some overhang is a clever tip for easy lifting after cooling.

You’ll need a large mixing bowl and a sturdy spatula or spoon for preparing the batter. Make sure to have measuring cups and spoons available to accurately measure ingredients. A wire rack is also essential for cooling down the bars evenly once baked. Don’t forget to have a sharp knife ready for slicing the bars neatly when they’re ready!

Ingredients

1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow or white cake mix
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup (175 g) pastel M&Ms, plus 1/4 cup (45 g) for topping
2 to 3 tablespoons pastel sprinkles (optional), plus extra for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Kick off the recipe by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper for effortless removal, or opt for a light coating of cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir the ingredients until they meld into a velvety batter, then blend in vanilla extract for that fragrant touch and uniformity.

Step 3: Infuse with Fun

Introduce a cup of pastel M&Ms and sprinkle in the colorful bits. Fold these into the batter gently, setting aside some M&Ms and sprinkles for the top later.

Step 4: Spread and Adorn

Transfer the prepared dough to your pan, smoothing it evenly across. Scatter the reserved M&Ms and a dash more sprinkles on top for an eye-catching finish. Press them gently to ensure they adhere.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for a snug 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle emerges mostly clean.

Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Savor

Allow the bars to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Utilize the parchment overhang to relocate the slab to a wire rack, permitting them to cool entirely before cutting them into delightful pieces.

Variations

Protein: Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for an additional crunch and protein boost.
Vegetables: Include grated carrots or zucchini for a healthier twist that adds moisture and subtle flavor.
Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to warm the flavors and complement the sweetness of the M&Ms.

Cooking Notes

Room Temperature: Using room temperature eggs ensures better incorporation into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
Mixing: Over-mixing can lead to tough bars. Stir just until ingredients are combined to preserve that delightful chewiness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.

Tips

Cooling Time: Always allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean, even slices.
Fruit Fans: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for an added burst of flavor and texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 210 per bar
Protein: About 2 grams per bar
Sodium: Roughly 170 mg per bar

FAQs

Can I use chocolate cake mix instead?

Yes, you can substitute yellow or white cake mix with chocolate for a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Are there any alternatives for M&Ms?

You can use other candies such as Reese’s Pieces or chocolate chips for a different taste and texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Our Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of convenience and celebration, allowing you to enjoy delightful, colorful treats without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, encouraging creativity by letting you incorporate your favorite candy or spice combinations. These cookie bars are more than just a dessert; they are a way to bring family and friends together, to create memories, and to share joy through baking. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with variations, and leave a comment below to share your experience. Enjoy your baking adventures!