Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for classic chocolate chip cookies but prefer a quicker, fuss-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth, then this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe is just what you need. Imagine all the deliciousness of chunky chocolate chips oozing through golden, buttery dough baked in one beautiful slab — perfect for sharing, slicing, and indulging without the hassle of individual cookies. This recipe hits that perfect balance between chewy and slightly crisp edges, making it irresistible for every chocolate lover craving a comforting treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe truly shine is its simple, approachable list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building that classic cookie flavor and texture, combining to give you bars that are both rich and scrumptiously satisfying.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, it provides structure and the perfect crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps your bars rise just enough while keeping them soft and tender.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and gives the dough that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Contributes sweetness and a slight crispiness to the edges.
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings moistness and depth with its hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while helping to keep the bars soft.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the overall flavor.
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: The star ingredient, melting into pockets of gooey, chocolatey heaven.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and get a 9×13-inch baking pan ready by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookie bars will come out cleanly and keeps them looking picture-perfect.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This little trio is essential because it evenly distributes the leavening agent and seasoning so nothing clumps or settles unevenly in your bars.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial since it traps air that helps give your cookie bars their tender texture and slightly crunchy edges.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Now, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and uniform. Stir in the vanilla extract, which gives your bars that signature warm, inviting aroma we all love in baked goods.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your bars soft rather than dense or tough.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Stir in those glorious chocolate chips so they’re evenly scattered throughout the cookie dough. The more chocolate in every bite, the better, right?

Step 7: Spread and Smooth the Dough

Transfer your dough to the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. A nice even layer ensures your bars bake consistently and slice up neatly after cooling.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This signals that the bars are perfectly set but still soft inside.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cutting them while they are warm can cause crumbling, so patience here pays off with neat, delicious squares ready to devour.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top right after baking to add a delightful contrast to the sweet chocolate chips. For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over each bar to make them feel extra special for guests or yourself!

Side Dishes

Chocolate chip cookie bars are excellent when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience. For a balanced snack, try them alongside fresh berries for a pop of freshness that complements the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters for birthday parties or gatherings. Layer them in a pretty glass jar or wrap individual bars in parchment tied with ribbon for an irresistible homemade gift that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookie bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually stay perfectly soft and chewy for up to 4 days, ideal for quick snacks or lunchbox treats.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or stored cookie bars warm, simply microwave them for about 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. The chocolate chips soften and the bars regain their fresh-baked goodness in no time.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate chips for this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even chunks of your favorite chocolate bar. Each variation adds a unique flavor twist to these classic bars.

What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free option?

You can replace the butter with an equal amount of dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Keep in mind that coconut oil may add a subtle coconut flavor, which some find delightful in cookie bars.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

Look for golden-brown edges and a toothpick inserted in the center that comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The bars should look set but still soft to the touch.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit like cranberries can be folded into the dough along with the chocolate chips to add texture and extra flavor.

Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before spreading it into the pan for baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a warm chocolate chip bar fresh from the oven, and this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe makes that experience effortless and utterly delicious every time. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these bars are the perfect blend of nostalgic flavor and simple baking joy. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookie bars — I promise you’ll want to make this recipe again and again!

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