If you love the nostalgia of chocolate chip cookies and the soft, fudgy center of brownies, these chocolate chip cookie bars are the perfect treat. Baked in an 8×8 square pan, they’re a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s super easy to whip up!
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Chocolate chip cookie bars combine the best parts of classic chocolate chip cookies and brownies. You get the crispy edges, the soft, gooey center, and all the delicious chocolatey goodness in every bite. Plus, they’re easier to make since you don’t have to scoop individual cookies—just press the dough into the pan and bake!
How to Know When Cookie Bars Are Done
You’ll know these cookie bars are ready when the edges turn golden brown, but the center still looks a bit gooey. This ensures the bars remain soft and chewy. Don’t worry if the center seems slightly underbaked; it will set as it cools, giving you that perfect gooey texture.
Ingredients
- Butter – For that rich, buttery flavor.
- Brown Sugar & White Sugar – A mix of sugars adds the perfect amount of sweetness and chewiness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the cookie bars.
- Eggs – Helps bind everything together.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for these bars.
- Baking Soda – Gives the bars a little lift.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – I love semi-sweet, but feel free to use milk, dark, or even chocolate chunks!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Ingredients: Cream together the butter, sugars, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda, then slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Press the Dough: Spread the dough evenly into your prepared pan. You can use a spatula or your hands to press it down.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center looks slightly underbaked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before slicing. For an extra treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Perfect Cookie Bars
- Chocolate Variety: Feel free to mix up the chocolate by using chunks, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a fun twist!
- Add Mix-Ins: Want to add some texture? Try mixing in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even M&Ms.
- Storing: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Banana Bread Brownies
- Easy Apple Pie Bars
- Homemade Brownies
Enjoy Your Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars!
These chocolate chip cookie bars are a great dessert for sharing, but let’s be honest, you might want to keep them all to yourself! Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with a scoop of ice cream, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
