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.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Easy Recipe For Chewy Treats

Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
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)

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