These Christmas Bar Cookies Don't Cut Any Corners

For many people, the best part of the holiday season is the delicious treats. At this point, most of us have probably tried all of the classic cakes, cookies and pies — but have your friends and family taken a bite out of some decadent Christmas bar cookies?

Sure, Christmas cookies are a lovely holiday tradition— the therapeutic act of baking, the intoxicating aromas, the Christmas cookie decorating, the swapping, the sharing, the devouring. But just in case this December is extra hectic and you’re worried about having the time to perfect those intricate cookie designs, Christmas bar cookies are the perfect solution. They look just as festive, your kitchen will still be full of those heavenly smells, and everyone (including yourself) will polish off a full tray in record time.

A bar cookie is a wonderful way to incorporate aspects of several desserts into one simple sheet pan bake. They combine all of the deliciousness of a cookie with the practicality of a box cake, while also incorporating your favorite holiday flavors like pumpkin, peppermint and pecan pie. All you have to do is bake one giant cookie in a baking pan and then cut it into bars or squares.

These sweet treats — which can be whipped up with seasonal ingredients, festive designs, and even yummy Christmas candy — are every bit as delicious as other holiday recipes, and are often easier to make. We rounded up the best Christmas cookie bar recipes for holiday baking without a pinch of added stress. And if you've got some more time on your hands, try one of our favorite traditional Christmas cake recipes.