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This Easter cake mix cookie bar recipe transforms a simple box of cake mix into a chewy, chocolate-studded treat that brightens any spring celebration. The colorful Easter M&Ms create a festive appearance that makes these bars irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
I first made these when I needed a quick dessert for my daughter’s school Easter party. The parents and teachers requested the recipe immediately, and now these colorful treats have become our official spring tradition.
Ingredients
- Yellow cake mix 15.25 oz: Provides the perfect cookie base with minimal measuring
- Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together while adding richness
- Vegetable oil: Creates that perfect chewy cookie bar texture
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor complexity of the simple cake mix
- Easter M&M candies: Add festive spring colors and a candy shell crunch
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: Balance the sweetness with deeper chocolate notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 350°F and ensure it reaches full temperature before baking. While waiting, prepare your 9×13 baking dish with a light coating of nonstick spray. Be sure to get the corners and sides for easy removal later.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. The mixture will be quite thick, almost like cookie dough rather than cake batter. This dense consistency creates the perfect chewy cookie bar texture. Once your base is mixed, gently fold in the colorful Easter M&Ms and chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to prevent breaking the candy shells.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Press the thick batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spatula or slightly dampened fingers to create a smooth surface. Bake for 20 25 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
- Serve with Style:
- Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This ensures clean slices without crumbling. Cut into squares of your desired size and arrange on a festive platter for maximum impact.
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My family particularly loves when I add a few extra M&Ms on top of the batter right before baking. The candy shells crack slightly in the oven, creating a beautiful stained glass effect that makes these bars look even more special for our Easter celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
These cookie bars actually taste even better the day after baking as the flavors have time to meld together. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer safe container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Easy Variations
While Easter M&Ms create a festive spring look, you can easily adapt this recipe for any holiday or occasion. Try red and green M&Ms for Christmas, pastel colors for baby showers, or team colors for sports events. You can also substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate, strawberry, or funfetti varieties to create entirely different flavor profiles while keeping the same simple preparation method.
Perfect for Gifting
These cookie bars make excellent gifts for teachers, neighbors, or Easter baskets. Once completely cooled, wrap individual bars in colorful cellophane, or stack several in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper. Add a cheerful ribbon and handwritten note for a personal touch that shows you care.
Common Queries
- → Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute with other cake mix flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or even funfetti for variation.
- → Can I add other candies or toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding your favorite candies, nuts, or sprinkles to personalize them further.
- → How should I store these cookie bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can these cookie bars be frozen?
Yes, wrap them in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw before serving.
- → What size dish should I use to bake?
A 9×13 inch baking dish works best for even baking and easy slicing.