Delve into the irresistible charm of these Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, which offer all the beloved flavors of classic chocolate chip cookies with the ease of a bar. This delectable dessert combines rich, creamy butter, a perfect blend of sugars, and generous amounts of chocolate chips and chunks, all baked into a golden, chewy masterpiece. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures from the soft center to the slightly crispy edges.
Why You'll Love These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: These cookie bars are a quintessential treat that pleases crowds with their familiar yet irresistible taste and comforting texture. They are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for those who love the taste of homemade cookies but prefer a more straightforward baking method. The combination of brown and white sugars creates a depth of flavor that enhances the chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Perfect Occasions for These Cookie Bars: These bars are ideal for picnics, school lunches, office treats, or any casual gathering. They make a great snack for movie nights or can be dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a family dinner, these cookie bars are sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips: For an extra special touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the cooled bars. Sprinkle with sea salt for a sophisticated flavor contrast, or top with a scoop of ice cream and some fresh berries for a delicious dessert plate. If you’re feeling festive, colorful sprinkles or crushed candy can make these bars holiday-ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1.5 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon each baking powder and salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Chocolate chips and chunks (as desired)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Tin:
- Grease and line an 8x8 inch square baking tin. Set aside. Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F).
- Softening the Butter:
- Place the butter in the microwave and soften for 30 seconds on a low setting. Avoid melting it completely.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the softened butter with both sugars until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla essence, whisking until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Fold in the chocolate chips and chunks.
- Bake the Cookie Bars:
- Transfer the dough to the prepared tin, pressing down with your hands to even it out, as the mixture will be sticky.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-24 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the tin for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your batch of Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, a delightful treat that combines simplicity with the comforting taste of home-baked goodness!
