Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instruction
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
Preparation
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Baking time: 25–30 minutes
- Makes about 24 bars
History
Chocolate chip cookies were invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield. Over time, the idea evolved into cookie bars for easier portioning and baking. Cookie bars became popular for their convenience and chewy texture.
Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- For softer bars, slightly underbake them.
- You can substitute half the chocolate chips with nuts for extra crunch.
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner cuts.
Benefits
- Provides a quick source of energy due to sugar and carbs.
- Contains small amounts of calcium from chocolate chips and butter.
- Can be a convenient homemade snack alternative to packaged treats.
Nutrition (per bar, approximate)
- Calories: 200–220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Conclusion
Chocolate chip cookie bars are a simple, delicious, and versatile treat. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack, they combine the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the convenience of a bar format.