Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Introduction
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers! They combine the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with the convenience of a bar. You get all the gooey, chocolatey goodness in squares that are easy to make, serve, and enjoy. These bars are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night at home.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make these cookie bars because they are simple and quick to prepare. Unlike traditional cookies that require rolling and cutting dough, these bars come together in one bowl. Plus, who doesn’t love a warm, sweet treat with chocolate chips? They are sure to please kids and adults alike. You can also customize these bars by adding your favorite nuts or using different types of chocolate.
How to Make Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Making these delicious cookie bars is super easy! Follow the steps below to create your own batch of Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
Ingredients:
- 2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: a sprinkle of flaky sea salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough paper around the sides to easily lift the bars out. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt together. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until no brown sugar lumps remain. Add the egg, extra egg yolk, and vanilla extract. The mixture will be thick.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined. The dough will be soft and thick. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and press into an even layer. Lightly sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt if desired.
- Bake for 30-34 minutes or until lightly browned on the sides. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; if it comes out mostly clean from the center of the pan, the bars are done.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan set on a wire rack for at least an hour before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
- Cover and store leftover bars at room temperature for up to 1 week.
How to Serve Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Serve these cookie bars warm with a glass of milk for the perfect pairing. You can also add a scoop of ice cream on top for a delightful dessert!
How to Store Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
To keep your cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot when mixing. This helps the sugars blend well.
- Don’t over-mix the dough; combine just until the ingredients are mixed.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Variation
You can make these bars with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes! You can use all brown sugar if you prefer a richer flavor.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars should be lightly browned on the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Enjoy your baking and these delicious cookie bars!
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1.5 teaspoons cornstarch
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled Ensure butter is not too hot.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Mix-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- to taste flaky sea salt Optional, for sprinkling on top.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and press into an even layer. Optionally sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt.
Baking
- Bake for 30-34 minutes or until lightly browned on the sides. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least an hour before cutting into squares.
Storing
- Cover and store leftover bars at room temperature for up to 1 week.
