Need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert? These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate Chewy Dessert Bars, blending rich melted butter, sweet brown sugar, and gooey chocolate chips into a soft, irresistible treat. Ready in just 40 minutes, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in. With this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars recipe, you’ll create a dessert that’s sure to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
I’m head over heels for these Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars because they’re the perfect Chewy Dessert Bars, offering a soft, buttery texture packed with chocolatey goodness. They’re easier than scooping individual cookies, yet deliver all the classic flavor you crave. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (makes about 24 bars):
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Butter: Melted butter ensures a chewy texture; let it cool slightly before mixing.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works; dark adds a deeper molasses flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is classic, but milk or dark chocolate chips are great too.
- Flour: Spoon and level flour to avoid dense bars; don’t pack the measuring cup.
- Vanilla: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; imitation works in a pinch.
Directions for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Let’s bake these irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars!
Preheat and Prep
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, I combine 1 cup melted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
I beat in 2 eggs and 2 tsp vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and velvety.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I whisk together 2½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt for even distribution.
Mix the Dough
I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to keep the Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars dough soft and chewy.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
I gently fold in 2 cups chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the dough.
Spread and Bake
I spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. I bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Cut
I let the Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars cool completely in the dish, then cut them into squares for serving.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 24 bars
- Calories: ~200 kcal per serving (1 bar)
- Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 2g protein, 10g fat, 1g fiber
Variations for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Try these twists on Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty Chewy Dessert Bars twist.
- Mixed Chips: Use a blend of milk, dark, and white chocolate chips for a varied Chewy Dessert Bars flavor.
- Caramel Swirl: Swirl in ¼ cup caramel sauce before baking for extra decadence.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for celiac-friendly bars.
- Peanut Butter: Replace ½ cup butter with peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo for a sweet-savory meal.
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee for a classic Chewy Dessert Bars pairing.
- Offer at a party with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage
I store Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, adding a slice of bread to keep them soft and chewy. For a firmer texture, I refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, bringing them to room temperature before serving. To freeze, I wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, thawing at room temperature for 1 hour. I layer bars with parchment paper in containers to prevent sticking.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars on a festive platter or rustic tray for a welcoming vibe.
- Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.
- Pairing: Enjoy with milk, coffee, or hot cocoa to complement Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
- Temperature: Serve warm (microwave for 10–15 seconds) for gooey chocolate or at room temperature for a chewy bite.
- Portion Size: One or two bars per person for a perfect dessert serving.
FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about this Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars recipe:
Can I use different types of chocolate chips in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix. You can also add other mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or caramel bits to create your own unique version of these cookie bars.
How can I tell when the cookie bars are done baking?
The cookie bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can cause the bars to become dry. If you prefer a gooey center, you can slightly underbake them and allow them to finish setting as they cool.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Yes, these cookie bars can be made ahead of time. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. If you are making them for an event, you can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?
Definitely! Try adding ½ cup dried cranberries, toffee bits, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
More Summer Dessert Ideas You’ll Love
- Chocolate Mousse Cake
- Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
- Strawberry Shortcake Cake (with sponge cake)
- Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Sweet, Simple Deligh
Conclusion
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Their soft, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor make them a favorite for all ages. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious bars with your loved ones!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough.
- You can substitute half of the chocolate chips with nuts, dried fruits, or other types of chocolate.
- Ensure the butter is fully melted for a smoother mixture and chewier texture.
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