Loaded M&M Oreo Cookie Bars

These loaded cookie bars have been one of my go-to recipes for years. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, they have literally never not been a crowd pleaser. You can technically play around with what cookies/candy you use, but I've never bothered; why try to beat perfection? As always, my most sincere apologies for my frankly appalling photography skills. I would've given it another go, but sadly they had all disappeared within 24 hours. Look on the bright side: you'll never have to wonder if it's AI this way!

 Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 TBSP. vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 18 Oreo cookies (I use birthday cake)
• 1/2 cup M&Ms

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, spray with cooking spray, and set aside. 
2. Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, about 1 minute on high. 
3. Let cool slightly to keep the egg from scrambling, then add egg, brown sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth. 
4. Add the flour and stir until just combined - don't overmix!
5. Stir in Oreos, then turn batter out into prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula. 
6. Evenly sprinkle M&Ms over the top, lightly pressing them down with your finger or a spatula. 
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until top is set and edges are slightly firm. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter. 
8. Allow bars to cool in pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Source: Averie Cooks