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Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recip

By Emma :

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

There’s something undeniably magical about chocolate chip cookies, but when you turn them into chewy chocolate chip cookie bars, you unlock a whole new level of deliciousness. These bars are thick, soft, and loaded with melty chocolate chips in every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for when you need to whip up a sweet treat without the hassle of rolling individual cookies.

This recipe creates a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth craving. Let’s dive into these cookie bars that are sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love These Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These cookie bars are everything you love about classic chocolate chip cookies, but in a convenient, bake-and-slice format. No need to scoop dough or bake in batches — just spread the dough into a pan, bake, and you’re done!

  • Chewy texture with crispy edges.
  • Loaded with melty chocolate chips.
  • Quick and easy, ready in just 45 minutes.
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping dessert.
  • Easy to customize with nuts, candy pieces, or even a swirl of peanut butter!

Imagine a thick, golden-brown bar with perfectly gooey chocolate chips, a slightly crispy top, and an irresistibly chewy middle. That’s exactly what you’re in for with these cookie bars.

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

To make these chewy chocolate chip cookie bars, you’ll need some simple pantry staples:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, but adds a delicious crunch)

These ingredients come together to form the most delicious cookie bar dough, with that perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and chocolatey goodness.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Before we get started, make sure you have the following on hand:

These simple tools ensure smooth preparation and perfect results every time.

How to Make Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Let’s walk through how to make these heavenly cookie bars:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars a breeze.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the chewy texture we all love.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that classic, warm flavor.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture.

5. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and, if desired, the chopped nuts. You can also swap the nuts for your favorite add-ins like toffee bits or M&Ms for extra fun!

6. Spread and Bake

Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cool, slice them into squares and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Cookie Bars

  • Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the edges — they should turn golden while the center remains soft. Overbaking will make them less chewy.
  • Customize the add-ins: You can substitute the chocolate chips with chunks, white chocolate, or even a mix of dark and milk chocolate. Adding a handful of pretzels or coconut flakes can also give an interesting twist!
  • Let them cool completely: For perfectly clean-cut bars, let them cool fully before slicing. This helps them firm up and hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

These chewy chocolate chip cookie bars are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them:

  • Warm with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
  • With a glass of cold milk for that classic cookie experience.
  • Cut into smaller pieces for a potluck or party tray.
  • Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

These bars keep well, making them a great make-ahead option.

  • Room temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: If you want to freeze them, wrap the individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can! Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overly salty bars.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I make them extra chewy?

For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the bars. Take them out when the center is still soft but the edges are golden. Let them cool to firm up, and you’ll have perfectly chewy bars.

Conclusion: Irresistibly Chewy and Perfect for Sharing

These chewy chocolate chip cookie bars are everything you want in a dessert — easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a comforting treat, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out these other irresistible treats:

Don’t forget to share your photos and reviews on Pinterest! I’d love to see your creations and hear what you think.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Sugar: 20g

Happy baking!

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Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Thick, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, these chewy chocolate chip cookie bars are the perfect dessert to feed a crowd or satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to make in one pan, these bars are everything you love about classic cookies but with half the effort. With a golden-brown crispy top and gooey chocolate centers, this is a must-try recipe for all cookie lovers!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
  • Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For an extra chewy texture, slightly underbake the cookie bars so the center stays soft and gooey.
  • Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate, or add in extras like toffee bits or candy pieces.
  • Let the bars cool fully before cutting for the cleanest slices.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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