These M&M Chocolate Orange Jewels are a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich, buttery texture of shortbread with the festive flair of chocolate and citrus. The base is a crisp, melt-in-your-mouth cookie infused with fresh orange zest and marmalade, creating a wonderful aromatic profile. Loaded with colorful M&Ms and crunchy pecans, each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors. They are perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence during the winter season. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these bars bake up beautifully and store well in an airtight container.
M & M Chocolate Orange Jewels
Description
These M&M Chocolate Orange Jewels are a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich, buttery texture of shortbread with the festive flair of chocolate and citrus. The base is a crisp, melt-in-your-mouth cookie infused with fresh orange zest and marmalade, creating a wonderful aromatic profile. Loaded with colorful M&Ms and crunchy pecans, each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors. They are perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence during the winter season. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these bars bake up beautifully and store well in an airtight container.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, cream together the Crisco, brown sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the egg and orange juice until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in the orange zest, chopped pecans, M&Ms, and mini baking bits.
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Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
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Dollop the orange marmalade over the dough and swirl it in gently with a knife.
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Drop remaining dough by spoonfuls over the marmalade layer.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 30
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 457.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32.4g50%
- Saturated Fat 20.4g102%
- Cholesterol 86.0mg29%
- Sodium 286.9mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 44.1g15%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 44.1g
- Protein 0.4g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Substitutions: You can use regular butter instead of Crisco for a richer flavor, though the texture may be slightly denser.
Variations: Try using different colored M&Ms to match holiday themes, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Tip: Ensure the orange zest is finely grated to distribute the flavor evenly without large chunks of pith.
