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Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

4.2 from 55 reviews

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars offer a deliciously chewy and buttery treat with melty chocolate chips throughout. Easy to prepare and bake in one pan, these bars are perfect for sharing, packing in lunches, or enjoying as a comforting dessert. The recipe includes options for both traditional and vegan versions, making it versatile for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon table salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 2 cups chocolate chips (any kind or mixed)
  • 1/2 cup toffee bits (optional)

Vegan Alternative Ingredients

  • 3 cups gluten-free flour blend
  • 2 flax eggs (prepared by mixing 2 tbsp ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp water, let sit for 510 minutes)
  • 1 cup plant-based butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to ensure even baking and easy cleanup.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to create a well-balanced dry mix that helps the bars hold together.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, blend together the melted and slightly cooled butter with the packed brown sugar and white sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
  4. Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving some to sprinkle on top if desired.
  5. Bake the Bars: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, beginning to check at 20 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and a center that is set but still soft, signaling the perfect chewy texture.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Chilling the bars enhances their texture and flavor, preventing them from being too gooey.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and a plant-based butter alternative.
  • Toffee bits are optional but add a nice crunchy sweetness; feel free to omit if preferred.
  • Ensure the melted butter is cooled slightly to avoid cooking the eggs when mixing.
  • Check bars early at 20 minutes to avoid over-baking and maintain chewy texture.
  • Storing bars in the refrigerator improves firmness and keeps them fresh longer.

Keywords: chocolate chip bars, cookie bars, easy dessert, chewy cookie bars, chocolate chip cookie recipe, vegan cookie bars, gluten-free cookie bars option