Gumdrop Cookie Bars
Sweet and chewy gumdrop cookie bars feature warm cinnamon and chopped nuts, offering a delightful treat perfect for snacking, picnics, or casual gatherings with a colorful fruity twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs well in a mixing bowl.
- Add water, salt, brown sugar, and vanilla to the eggs and beat well.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and cinnamon together.
- Finely cut gumdrops into the flour mixture.
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 10 x 15-inch shallow pan.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 50 minutes.
- Cut into squares while warm and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar. If you want to add a twist, substitute some of the gumdrops with dried fruits or chocolate chips. You can also use walnuts or pecans in place of other nuts for added flavor. Ensure the gumdrops are finely cut to distribute evenly in the batter. If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the cinnamon or add a dash of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These gumdrop cookie bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a festive dessert for gatherings, especially during the holidays, alongside other treats like Farmhouse Cookies or Peanut Cookies(Very Good For Christmas).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumdrop cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, simply reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will help revive their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Cookie Bars contains roughly 410 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 use different types of gumdrops?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or colors of gumdrops. You can also use jelly beans or other chewy candies as a fun alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the candies you choose.
What if I don't have a shallow pan?
If you don't have a 10 x 15-inch shallow pan, you can use a larger baking dish but be mindful that the bars may take longer to bake and could be thicker. Alternatively, you can bake the batter in two smaller pans to ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The cookie bars are done when they are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
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).