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Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe Easy and Chewy Treat

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Chocolate chip cookie bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, combining ease and deliciousness in every bite. They offer a chewy texture that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the hassle of shaping individual cookies. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a favorite among home cooks like busy parents and baking enthusiasts.

One reason these bars stand out is their simplicity. This chocolate chip cookie bars recipe is quick and simple, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for busy schedules. You can whip up a batch in no time, turning basic pantry staples into a tasty treat that brings joy to any gathering.

Plus, the health aspects add to their appeal. Made with wholesome ingredients, these bars provide beneficial nutrients that fit into various diets, and you can tweak them for whole grains or reduced sugar to support wellness. Their adaptability means everyone from students to diet-conscious individuals can enjoy them tailored to their needs.

The flavor profile is truly addictive. Rich chocolate chips blend with a buttery base for a unique taste that outshines ordinary desserts. This combination of sweetness and texture keeps you coming back for more, making these bars a versatile option for any occasion.

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To create the perfect chocolate chip cookie bars, you’ll need a few key items that work together to build flavor and texture. This section lists out all the ingredients precisely as provided, ensuring you have everything measured accurately for success.

  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (270g)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (170g)
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g)
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (360g)

These ingredients form the base of your bars, with options for special dietary needs. For instance, swap in plant-based butter for vegan versions or use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those preferences.

Preparing chocolate chip cookie bars is straightforward and fun, perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Follow these steps to achieve bars that are golden, chewy, and full of flavor. Remember, preparation time is just 10 minutes, with cooking at 55 minutes, totaling about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan fully with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (270g), 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt, then set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ¾ cup melted and cooled unsalted butter (170g), 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g), and ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133g), whisking until thickened.
  4. Add the 2 large eggs at room temperature and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, whisking well to blend.
  5. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until nearly combined, leaving some dry streaks for the best texture.
  6. Reserve about ¼ cup of the 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (360g), then stir the rest into the dough.
  7. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, spread it evenly with an offset spatula, and sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top.
  8. Bake for approximately 55 minutes until the edges are golden and set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  9. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about an hour before removing and cutting into squares.

For dietary adaptations, use vegan butter and egg substitutes in step 3, or gluten-free flour in step 2. This method, based on the provided directions, ensures your bars turn out just right every time.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars this …

Chocolate chip cookie bars can be adapted to fit various needs, making them accessible for everyone. Whether you’re avoiding dairy or gluten, these changes keep the bars tasty and true to form.

  • Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for dairy-free options.
  • Use ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water to substitute eggs, supporting vegan needs.
  • For gluten-free diets, swap traditional flour with almond flour or certified gluten-free blends.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance warm, spiced flavors.
  • Incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruits for texture and nutritional value.
  • Use dairy-free chocolate chips or carob chips to accommodate allergies or preferences.

These swaps, as detailed in the provided content, help maintain the bars’ appeal while meeting dietary requirements.

Taking your chocolate chip cookie bars to the next level involves some pro techniques and creative twists. For instance, chocolate peanut butter poke cake recipe offers ideas for similar desserts that complement this one.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading and achieve a fudgier texture. Using melted butter creates a chewy, gooey result and makes mixing easy without a mixer, as noted in the tips.

Flavor Variations

Experiment by adding orange zest, espresso powder, or sea salt flakes to complement the chocolate’s flavor. Cornstarch helps keep the bars soft by limiting gluten development, ensuring a perfect bite.

Presentation Tips

Garnish with chopped nuts or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an appealing look perfect for gatherings. Accurate flour measurement is key; weigh with a scale to avoid dense bars.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze portions to bake fresh later. Mix-ins like nuts, candies, toffee, coconut, or dried fruits can be added if desired, as suggested.

For a fudgier texture, reduce baking time to about 45 minutes. Store the bars airtight and add marshmallows to maintain softness, and let them cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

Remember, fully lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes release easier, as highlighted in the preparation tips.

Proper storage keeps your chocolate chip cookie bars fresh and delicious. Follow these guidelines to enjoy them longer. The nutritional info per serving includes 367 kcal, 48g carbs, 4g protein, and more, which you should consider for meal prep.

Storage Method Duration Tips
Refrigeration Up to one week Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Freezing Up to 3 months Wrap individually and thaw at room temperature.
Reheating N/A Warm in microwave or oven for softness.

Bake in bulk and portion into resealable bags for easy snacks, ensuring convenience and flavor preservation.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Can I bake chocolate chip cookie bars in a 9×13-inch pan instead of the original size?

Yes, you can bake chocolate chip cookie bars in a 9×13-inch pan by doubling the recipe. Line the pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal. Bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into 18 large or 24 smaller pieces.

How do I measure flour correctly for chocolate chip cookie bars to avoid dry or dense results?

The most accurate way to measure flour is with a kitchen scale. If you don’t have one, fluff the flour with a spoon, then lightly spoon it into a measuring cup, leveling off the excess with a knife. Avoid scooping the flour directly with the cup, as this packs it down and adds too much flour, making the bars dry or dense.

Why is it important to line the baking pan when making chocolate chip cookie bars?

Lining your baking pan with parchment paper or foil prevents the cookie bars from sticking and allows for clean and easy removal after baking. Buttering and flouring alone may not be enough and can cause the bars to break apart. The lining also helps with even baking and simplifies cleanup.

Can I add other ingredients besides chocolate chips to customize my cookie bars?

Yes, you can mix in a variety of ingredients to change up the flavor and texture. Popular options include M&Ms, chopped nuts, crushed pretzels, toffee bits, shredded coconut, or dried fruit like cranberries. Just swap these in place of some or all the chocolate chips to keep the overall balance of the recipe.

How can I keep chocolate chip cookie bars soft and fresh after baking?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness. To extend moisture retention, add a few large marshmallows to the container; they absorb excess moisture and help prevent the bars from drying out. Avoid refrigeration as it can make the bars harden.

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  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

🍫 These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars offer an easy, chewy treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.
🍪 Combining crispy edges with a soft, gooey center, this recipe is ideal for sharing or enjoying as a comforting snack anytime.

Ingredients

– 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (270g)

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (170g)

– 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g)

– ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133g)

– 2 large eggs, room temperature

– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (360g)

Instructions

1-Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan fully with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2-In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (270g), 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt, then set aside.

3-In a large bowl, combine the ¾ cup melted and cooled unsalted butter (170g), 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g), and ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133g), whisking until thickened.

4-Add the 2 large eggs at room temperature and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, whisking well to blend.

5-Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until nearly combined, leaving some dry streaks for the best texture.

6-Reserve about ¼ cup of the 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (360g), then stir the rest into the dough.

7-Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, spread it evenly with an offset spatula, and sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top.

8-Bake for approximately 55 minutes until the edges are golden and set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

9-Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about an hour before removing and cutting into squares.

Notes

🍴 Cornstarch helps keep the bars soft by limiting gluten development.
🧈 Using melted butter creates a chewy, gooey texture and makes mixing easier without a mixer.
⏲️ For fudgier bars, reduce baking time to about 45 minutes; store airtight with marshmallows to maintain softness.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 367 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 229 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, Easy Cookie Bars, Chewy Cookie Bars, Chocolate Chip Treats

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