No-Fuss Christmas Bars

STEP 1

Heat oven to 350°F.

STEP 2

Combine all crust ingredients in bowl. Beat at low speed until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press onto bottom of ungreased 9-inch square baking pan (except for chocolate toffee variation). Bake 15-20 minutes (except for chocolate toffee variation) or until edges are lightly browned.

STEP 3

Follow directions for filling variation below. Cool; cut into bars.

STEP 4

Variations:
Pecan Pie Bars: Combine 3/4 cup corn syrup, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla in bowl. Beat at medium speed until well mixed. Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans. Sprinkle 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips over crust. Pour filling over hot, partially baked crust. Continue baking 30-35 minutes or until set. 20 bars.

Zesty Lemon Bars: Combine 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder in bowl. Beat at low speed until well mixed. Pour filling over hot, partially baked crust. Continue baking 18-20 minutes or until filling is set. Cool slightly; sprinkle with powdered sugar. 20 bars.

Chocolate Toffee Bars: Prepare crust ingredients as directed except press firmly on bottom of 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake 20-25 minutes or until crust is very lightly browned. Immediately sprinkle 1/2 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips and 1/2 cup butterscotch or white baking chips over crust. Let stand 3-5 minutes or until soft. Evenly swirl over crust with table knife or back of spoon. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup chopped pecans or peanuts, if desired. 36 bars.