Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Thick & Chewy in 30 Minutes
Indulge in These Thick, Chewy, and Foolproof Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies filling your kitchen. But what if you could enjoy that same irresistible flavor in a thick, chewy bar form? These Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert hack—quick to make, foolproof, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress.
Imagine biting into a soft, buttery base studded with gooey chocolate chips, all baked to golden perfection. The texture is a dream—crisp edges with a melt-in-your-mouth center. Plus, these bars are incredibly versatile. Add nuts, swap in white chocolate chips, or drizzle with caramel for a personalized twist. No matter how you serve them, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Rich, buttery, and sweet with bursts of melty chocolate in every bite.
- Texture: Thick, chewy, and slightly crisp around the edges for the perfect balance.
- Aroma: Warm vanilla and chocolate notes that fill your kitchen with comfort.
- Visual Appeal: Golden brown with pockets of chocolate chips peeking through.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly, with no special techniques required.
- Special Equipment: Just a mixing bowl, baking pan, and basic kitchen tools.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: These bars are perfect for bakers of all levels. With simple steps and minimal prep, even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results.
- Category: Dessert or snack, ideal for any occasion.
- Cuisine: A classic American treat with universal appeal.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, using pantry staples like flour, sugar, and chocolate chips.
- Season: Perfect year-round, but especially comforting during cooler months.
- Occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a game-changer for anyone who loves dessert but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The taste is unbeatable—rich, buttery, and loaded with chocolate. The texture is equally impressive, with a chewy center and slightly crisp edges that make every bite satisfying. Plus, they’re incredibly convenient. No need to scoop individual cookies; just spread the dough in a pan and bake!
From a nutritional perspective, these bars can be customized to suit your preferences. Use dark chocolate chips for a slightly healthier option or add nuts for extra protein. They’re also perfect for sharing, making them a hit at parties or family gatherings. And let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness. With simple, affordable ingredients, you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, these bars are foolproof. The recipe is straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious. Plus, they’re versatile. Add your favorite mix-ins, like M&Ms, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your dessert repertoire.
The Recipe
Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Recipe Notes
- For a gooier texture, slightly underbake the bars by reducing the cook time by 2-3 minutes.
- Substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or butterscotch chips for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.