Irresistible Monster Mash Bars (Printer-Friendly)

Chewy bars bursting with chocolate chips, colorful candies, and optional nuts for a tasty treat.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dairy & Sweeteners

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Eggs & Flavoring

04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

06 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Mix-ins

09 - 1 cup chocolate chips
10 - 1 cup colorful candy pieces (M&Ms, Skittles, etc.)
11 - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and grease or line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract.
04 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
05 - Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
06 - Fold in chocolate chips, colorful candies, and chopped nuts if desired.
07 - Spread cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
08 - Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges turn lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
09 - Let cool in pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove and cool completely before cutting into 24 bars.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - For an even texture, avoid overmixing once dry ingredients are added.