Do you ever wonder why cookie bars are so much more satisfying than traditional cookies? If you’re someone with a sweet tooth, then you’re in for a treat with these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. These delightful bars marry the best aspects of cookies—crisp edges, soft centers, and, of course, chocolatey goodness—into a single, easy-to-make dessert. Let’s explore how to create these mouth-watering cookie bars that will leave your friends and family begging for more!

Ingredients Needed

To create irresistibly Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base for your cookie bars, providing structure and stability.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookie bars rise, creating a perfect gooey texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Works in tandem with baking soda to achieve that ideal fluffiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to your cookie bars.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a light, airy texture.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Imparts a deeper flavor and chewier texture.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent that keeps all ingredients together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must-have for that unmistakable cookie flavor.
• 1 cup chocolate chips (half a 12 oz bag): The star of the show, ensuring every bite is chocolatey bliss.

Timing

Preparing these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is quick and easy. Here’s how the time breaks down:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-22 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 30-35 minutes, which is about 20% less time than the average cookie recipe! This means you can have warm, gooey cookie bars ready in no time.

How to Make Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line a square 9×9” dish with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked cookie bars.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir until everything is well mixed to ensure even leavening.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix again until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing here to keep the bars tender.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing as you go until it’s just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars.

Step 7: Stir in Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips gently using a spatula or wooden spoon for an even distribution.

Step 8: Bake

Spread the cookie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Cook in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown. For extra gooeyness, feel free to take them out a little earlier.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Once cool, remove from the baking dish and cut into 9 delicious squares!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (1 square) contains approximately:

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugars: 19g
• Protein: 2g

This treat certainly satisfies your sweet cravings, but it’s essential to enjoy in moderation.

Healthier Alternatives for Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

For those looking to make a healthier version of Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, consider these alternatives:

• Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Butter: Use coconut oil or applesauce instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Sugars: Opt for coconut sugar to lower the glycemic index.
• Chocolate Chips: Choose dark chocolate chips for added antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars experience with these serving ideas:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pair with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elevated treat.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers can stumble when making cookie bars. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

• Overmixing: This makes cookie bars tough; aim for a gentle hand.
• Wrong Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven! An underheated oven can lead to uneven baking.
• Not Letting Them Cool: They may seem done, but they continue to cook when removed from the oven.

Storing Tips for Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

To maintain freshness and flavor, follow these simple storage tips:

• Airtight Container: Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze bars individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

In summary, these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are not only easy to make but also a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Remember to follow the steps carefully and enjoy every bite! Ready to bake? Try this recipe at home and don’t hesitate to share your feedback; we’d love to hear how they turn out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with white chocolate, butterscotch chips, or even nuts!

What if I don’t have a 9×9 pan?

You can use any similar-sized baking dish; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and use a plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly option!

Enjoy your baking adventure!

Print