Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/3 cups white sugar
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups mini semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup toasted, chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Gather all the ingredients and set them aside for easy access.
2. Line the bottom and sides of a 13x9-inch baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on all sides. Lightly spray with baking spray and set the pan aside.
3. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the white sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. With the mixer running on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, beating until each is just combined before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and beat until incorporated.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until fully combined.
6. With the stand mixer running on low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat until almost fully combined, about 2 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
7. Stir in the mini semisweet chocolate chips and toasted chopped walnuts until well combined.
8. Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cookie is golden brown and set. Be sure to rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.
10. Remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
11. Once cooled, use the foil overhang to lift the cookie out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into 24 squares, each about 2 inches in size.
12. Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade cookies!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount per serving
Calories	286
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	36mg
Sodium	146mg
Total Carbohydrate	36g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	20g
Protein	4g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	31mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	136mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional information is based on available data and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Consult a nutritionist if following a medically restricted diet.

Chocolate chip cookie bars are an irresistible treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the convenience of a bar-style dessert. These easy-to-make bars are a fan favorite for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee. With their chewy texture and delicious blend of mini semisweet chocolate chips and toasted walnuts, chocolate chip cookie bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

History of Chocolate Chip Cookies

The origin of chocolate chip cookies dates back to the 1930s in Massachusetts, USA. Ruth Wakefield, the inventor of the chocolate chip cookie, ran the Toll House Inn, where she first created the now-famous treat. The story goes that Ruth accidentally broke up a Nestl chocolate bar and added it to her cookie dough, expecting the chocolate to melt into the dough. Instead, the chocolate held its shape, resulting in the creation of the chocolate chip cookie. Over time, this cookie became an American classic and was later popularized further when Nestl partnered with Ruth to produce chocolate chips, which are now a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Regional Variations

Chocolate chip cookie bars have regional variations across the United States. In some parts, you might find them made with additional ingredients such as peanut butter chips, caramel, or even chunks of brownies mixed into the batter. Some areas add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet contrast. While the traditional recipe sticks to the classic chocolate chip and walnut combination, variations are common, with some people even substituting oats or coconut flakes for a unique twist. Each variation brings something different to the table, but the core concept of soft, chewy bars with chunks of chocolate remains the same.

How Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Differ from Traditional Cookies

While both chocolate chip cookie bars and traditional chocolate chip cookies share the same basic ingredients, they differ in texture and ease of preparation. Traditional cookies are individually scooped and baked on a baking sheet, resulting in a crisp exterior and soft center. On the other hand, cookie bars are baked in one large pan and cut into squares once they cool, offering a more uniform texture throughout. Cookie bars tend to be a bit chewier and thicker than traditional cookies, making them a more filling option for those craving something hearty.

Where Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Are Typically Served

Chocolate chip cookie bars are a popular dessert at casual gatherings such as picnics, barbecues, and birthday parties. Their ease of servingno need to arrange individual cookiesmakes them ideal for large groups. They are also frequently found in bake sales, school events, and potlucks where people appreciate a sweet treat that is easy to share. Many cafs and bakeries offer these bars as a quick grab-and-go snack, making them a great option for a sweet indulgence on the move.

Fun Facts About Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

• Chocolate chip cookie bars are known for their versatility. You can easily swap out walnuts for other nuts or add a layer of caramel, marshmallow, or even peanut butter chips for a twist.
• They are often made as a quicker alternative to traditional cookies, allowing bakers to save time while still enjoying the same delicious flavors.
• One of the best things about cookie bars is that they are perfect for people who struggle with shaping individual cookies. Simply spread the dough into a pan, bake, and cut!
• In some parts of the world, chocolate chip cookie bars are known as "cookie cakes," especially when made in a larger format and served as a celebration dessert.

Whether you're preparing a batch for a family gathering or a weekend treat for yourself, chocolate chip cookie bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their deliciously rich flavors and simple preparation, these bars have become a beloved dessert for cookie lovers everywhere.

FAQ about Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

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