Chewy Noels(Bar Cookie)
Chewy Noels are delightful bar cookies with a rich, buttery flavor, topped with powdered sugar and decorated with festive green icing, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan, melt the butter.
- In a bowl, stir together brown sugar, chopped nuts, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in eggs and vanilla until well combined.
- Carefully pour the mixture over the melted butter in the pan; do not stir.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sift powdered sugar over the top.
- Place wax paper under a wire rack; immediately invert the pan onto the rack to cool.
- Once cooled, dust again with powdered sugar.
- Cut into 24 bars.
- Write 'Noel' on each bar with green decorator icing, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer, substitute half of the chopped nuts with chocolate chips for a different texture. Ensure the butter is melted but not browned to avoid a burnt taste. You can also use gluten-free flour if desired for a gluten-free option. Be cautious not to overbake, as chewy bars should remain soft in the center.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chewy Noels as a delightful dessert or snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Mistletoe Dip for a festive gathering. For a decorative touch, consider plating with fresh berries or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These bars make excellent holiday treats or party favors when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chewy Noels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, briefly microwave individual bars for a few seconds before serving, ensuring they retain their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Noels(Bar Cookie) contains roughly 59 calories, with 0g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, Chewy Noels can be made ahead of time. They store well, and their flavors can actually develop further after a day or two. Simply bake them, cool completely, and store in an airtight container. If you plan to serve them at a later date, you can also freeze them for up to three months, then thaw before dusting with powdered sugar.
What type of nuts works best in this recipe?
You can use a variety of nuts in Chewy Noels, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, depending on your preference. Each nut variety offers a unique flavor and texture. If you or your guests have nut allergies, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.
Is it possible to make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can adapt Chewy Noels to be vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using flax eggs instead of regular eggs. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).