Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars

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A close-up of soft and chewy cookie bars topped with pastel-colored M&M candies and chocolate chips, cut into squares and placed on parchment paper.

Soft, chewy, and loaded with pastel sprinkles and chocolate eggs, these Easter cookie bars are a quick and easy dessert made with cake mix!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Super easy , just mix and bake!
✅ Perfect for Easter celebrations
✅ Kid-friendly and customizable
✅ No need for a mixer.

Ingredients

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of pastel M&M’s or chocolate eggs
  • ½ cup white chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup pastel sprinkles

Instructions

Step-by-step process of making Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars from mixing to baking.

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms.

Step 3: Add the Mix-ins

Fold in M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles, saving some for topping.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mix-ins on top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The center should be slightly soft.

Step 5: Cool & Cut

Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares. This helps them set and keeps them from falling apart.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Enjoy these chewy and colorful cookie bars as a fun Easter treat. Serve with milk, coffee, or hot cocoa!

Pro Tips & Variations

🔹 Use different cake mix flavors: Try Funfetti, chocolate, or lemon!
🔹 Add nuts for extra crunch, like chopped pecans or almonds.
🔹 Drizzle with white chocolate for a fancy touch.
🔹 Make them extra festive by adding mini marshmallows or shredded coconut.

Storage & Freezing

  • At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • In the Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Easter Fun Fact! 🐰

Did you know that the Easter Bunny tradition dates back to 17th-century Germany? Children believed an egg-laying hare (Osterhase) would bring them treats if they were well-behaved!

To make your Easter celebration even more delightful, try pairing these chewy, colorful cookie bars with these tasty beverages and desserts:

☕ Beverages:

  • Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream, A cozy drink that complements the sweetness of the bars.
  • Iced Vanilla Latte, The coffee balances the sugary flavors for a perfect afternoon treat.
  • Strawberry Lemonade, A refreshing citrusy drink to brighten up the Easter table.
  • Milk (Classic Choice!), You can never go wrong with a cold glass of milk and a chewy cookie bar.

🍨 Desserts:

  • Vanilla or Strawberry Ice Cream, Serve a warm cookie bar with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
  • Mini Cheesecakes, The creamy tanginess of cheesecake pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bars.
  • Fruit Salad with Honey Drizzle, Adds a light and refreshing contrast to the rich cookie bars.
  • Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, If you’re making a full Easter dessert spread, this classic cake pairs beautifully with the cookie bars.

Serving Tip!

For an extra special treat, warm the cookie bars slightly before serving and top with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a scoop of ice cream.

A plate of chewy Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars served with milk, showing their soft, gooey texture.

If you’re looking for a lighter version of these delicious Easter treats, try these simple swaps to reduce sugar, calories, and refined ingredients while keeping the flavor and fun intact!

Healthier Ingredient Swaps:

  • Cake Mix Alternative: Use a homemade mix by combining 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour, ½ cup coconut sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and a pinch of salt instead of store-bought cake mix.
  • Butter Alternative: Replace butter with ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce or ¼ cup coconut oil for a lower-fat option.
  • Egg Substitute: Use 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for added fiber and plant-based protein.
  • Lower-Sugar Mix-ins: Swap regular M&M’s for dark chocolate chips and use unsweetened shredded coconut or chopped nuts instead of sprinkles.
  • Extra Fiber Boost: Add ½ cup rolled oats to the batter for a heartier texture and more fiber.

Baking Tips for a Healthier Version:

  1. Mix your homemade cake mix with the wet ingredients as usual.
  2. Fold in your healthier mix-ins (dark chocolate chips, nuts, oats, or coconut).
  3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) instead of 350°F to prevent over-browning and keep the bars moist.
  4. Let cool completely before cutting to help them firm up without extra sugar or butter.

Healthier Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with Greek yogurt for added protein.
  • Drizzle with almond butter instead of melted chocolate for a naturally sweet touch.
  • Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing, fruity contrast.

These modifications make the Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars lower in sugar, higher in fiber, and packed with better-for-you ingredients without sacrificing flavor!

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes! While yellow or white cake mix is classic, you can try Funfetti, chocolate, or even lemon for a unique twist.

2. Do I have to use M&M’s, or can I substitute them?

You can substitute M&M’s with chopped chocolate, mini Cadbury eggs, Reese’s Pieces, or jelly beans for an extra festive touch.

For softer bars, slightly underbake them by 1-2 minutes. For chewier bars, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. How do I cut clean, even squares?

Let the bars cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect edges.

Conclusion

Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a fun, festive, and easy treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for an Easter brunch, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet springtime snack, they’re a no-fuss dessert that’s as delicious as it is colorful.

With just a few simple ingredients and endless customization options, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. So grab your cake mix, mix in your favorite Easter treats, and enjoy a batch of these chewy, buttery bars!

Happy Easter and happy baking! 🐰🌸🍪

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