These cheerful Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars are super easy to make and oh-so-tasty! Just mix cake batter, add your favorite candies, and bake for a delightful treat that’s perfect for spring!
I love how colorful they are! They brighten up any gathering and are great for sharing—unless I decide to keep them all to myself. Oops! 😄 Let’s be real, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: The star of these cookie bars! It adds sweetness and a soft texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a gluten-free cake mix or a vanilla cake mix instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor, but you can substitute it with coconut oil or margarine if needed. Just remember that oil may make the bars a bit denser.
Chocolate Chips: I love using semi-sweet chocolate chips, but you could also swap in milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different sweet twist.
Easter M&M’s: These add a fun crunch and pop of color. If you can’t find them, any other candy-coated chocolate like Skittles or Reeses Pieces can work just as well, or even nuts for a crunchier texture!
Vanilla Extract: This ingredient boosts flavor. If you run out of vanilla, try almond extract for a different taste profile.
How Do I Ensure My Cookie Bars Bake Perfectly?
Baking these cookie bars requires attention to timing and oven temperature. It’s important to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get that nice golden edge. Start checking them around the 20-minute mark!
- Keep an eye on the edges; they should be lightly golden when your bars are done.
- Insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean—just a few crumbs are fine.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This helps them hold their shape better.
For even better results, using parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes it super easy to lift the whole batch out when they are cool!
How to Make Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup Easter M&M’s (or similar candy)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, plus 10 minutes to cool. In just under an hour, you’ll have warm, delicious cookie bars that celebrate the spirit of Easter!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it lightly. You can also line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later on.
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or whisk to stir everything together until it’s mixed well and forms a thick batter. Don’t worry if it looks a bit thick; that’s perfect!
3. Add in the Fun Stuff:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and half of the Easter M&M’s into the batter. This will add a nice crunch and sweetness to your cookie bars. Reserve the other half of the M&M’s to sprinkle on top later!
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your hands, spread it out evenly, pressing it down into the corners for a nice, even layer. It’s okay if it’s a bit sticky—just make sure it’s spread out!
5. Top with M&M’s:
Now, sprinkle the remaining M&M’s over the top of the batter. This will make your bars look colorful and festive, perfect for Easter!
6. Bake the Cookie Bars:
Place your baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. It’s okay if it’s a little gooey; that’s how cookie bars should be!
7. Cool and Cut:
Once they are done baking, take the pan out of the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This makes them easier to cut. After that, slice them into squares and enjoy!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve them warm or let them cool to room temperature. These festive Easter treat bars are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Substitute the Yellow Cake Mix?
Absolutely! You can use white cake mix or even a gluten-free cake mix if you’re catering to dietary needs. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor or texture, but the overall result will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Cookie Bars?
Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Yes, get creative! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even different kinds of chocolate chips to customize the flavor. Just be mindful not to overload the batter too much to maintain the right consistency!
What’s the Best Way to Cut These Cookie Bars?
For clean cuts, let the bars cool completely before slicing. Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water for a few seconds before cutting, and wipe it clean between cuts if needed. This will help prevent the edges from crumbling!
