Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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Indulge in Decadence with Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie bar. These bars bring together the classic comfort of chocolate chip cookies with the delightful ease of a dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a cozy family night, a casual get-together with friends, or simply a craving for something sweet, these cookie bars deliver pure joy. My fondest memories of baking with my family revolve around recipes like this one—simple yet oh-so-satisfying.

Reasons to Try Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Why should you throw on your apron and make these cookie bars today? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to whip up! This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, as it requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser; who can say no to chewy, chocolatey goodness?

“These cookie bars were a hit at our potluck! Everyone kept coming back for more. The gooey center is just out of this world!” – Sarah T.

How This Recipe Comes Together

Making these gooey delights is straightforward and rewarding. First, preheat your oven to 350°F, and line a square 9×9” baking dish with parchment paper (or spray it with cooking spray). Gather your ingredients together, and you’re on your way to baking bliss. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl.
2. Cream the butter and sugars in another until smooth.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, fold in the chocolate chips, and bake! Just about 20-22 minutes and you’ll have perfectly golden cookie bars to sink your teeth into.

What You’ll Need

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Here’s your shopping list for the ultimate dessert experience:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips (half a 12 oz bag)

Note: If you’re looking to make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the cooking method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 9×9” baking dish with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt until evenly combined.
3. In another bowl, blend the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer until creamy.
4. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the butter mix, stirring until just combined. Remember, do not overmix!
6. Fold in the chocolate chips gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Spread the cookie batter evenly in your prepared pan.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set based on your desired crispiness.
9. Once cool, lift the parchment paper to remove the cookie bars, then cut into 9 squares.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

There are countless ways to savor these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! Here are some serving suggestions:

• A La Mode: Top each square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Coffee Pair: Serve them alongside your favorite coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing leftover cookie bars is simple!

• At Room Temperature: Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
• In the Fridge: You can extend their freshness by storing them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: To freeze, slice them up and place in a freezer-safe container or wrap each piece individually. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.

Pro Chef Tips

Looking to enhance your baking skills? Here are some helpful tips for making these cookie bars:

• Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture. It should yield slightly under pressure but still hold its shape.
• Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing after adding the flour to ensure a chewy texture.
• Taste Test: Don’t hesitate to taste your batter (before adding the eggs for safety) for sweetness or chocolatey goodness as you go!

Creative Twists

Feel like playing with flavors? Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Peanut Butter Bliss: Swirl in some peanut butter into the batter before baking for a heavenly flavor blend.
• M&M Candy: Substitute chocolate chips for M&M’s for a colorful and fun twist.
• Dried Fruits: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 20-22 minutes.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, substituting some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour is possible, but keep in mind it may affect the texture.

What should I do if my cookie bars are too crumbly?
If you find your cookie bars are crumbly, it may be due to overmixing or not enough binding ingredients. Ensure the butter is adequately softened, and don’t overmix your dry and wet ingredients!

Make sure to dive into the oven with confidence. Happy baking!

Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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Indulge in these warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie bars that combine the classic cookie comfort with the ease of sharing, perfect for any occasion.

Print it Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 9 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter (softened) Must be softened, not melted.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg Can be substituted with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Mix-ins

• 1 cup chocolate chips (half a 12 oz bag)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 9x9” baking dish with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt until evenly combined.
3. In another bowl, blend the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer until creamy.
4. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the butter mix, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix!
6. Fold in the chocolate chips gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Spread the cookie batter evenly in your prepared pan.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
9. Once cool, lift the parchment paper to remove the cookie bars, then cut into 9 squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15g

Notes

For a perfect texture, use softened butter and avoid overmixing. Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.

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