Is it okay to toss in nuts?

For sure! Stir in around a half-cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the chocolate chips if you want a bit of crunch.

What signs show the bars are ready to come out?

The edges should have a golden tint, and the middle might still look soft. Don’t worry, they firm up while cooling off.

Can dark brown sugar work instead of light?

You bet! Dark brown sugar will add a richer molasses kick and make them even moister.

What's the best way to keep leftovers fresh?

Pop them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 4 days on the counter or 3 months in the freezer.

Can this recipe be scaled up for more servings?

Definitely! Just double everything and use a 9x13-inch pan. Bake for something like 25-28 minutes.

Delicious Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Craving

One-pan chocolate chip cookie bars with gooey centers and crisp edges. Bake in just half an hour to impress a crowd without extra effort.

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By Ana

Updated on Mon, 09 Jun 2025 11:00:21 GMT

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars | homebitesbyana.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Is it okay to toss in nuts?: For sure! Stir in around a half-cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the chocolate chips if you want a bit of crunch.
→ What signs show the bars are ready to come out?: The edges should have a golden tint, and the middle might still look soft. Don’t worry, they firm up while cooling off.
→ Can dark brown sugar work instead of light?: You bet! Dark brown sugar will add a richer molasses kick and make them even moister.
→ What's the best way to keep leftovers fresh?: Pop them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 4 days on the counter or 3 months in the freezer.
→ Can this recipe be scaled up for more servings?: Definitely! Just double everything and use a 9x13-inch pan. Bake for something like 25-28 minutes.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Packed with chocolate chips and a soft, gooey texture, these cookie bars are easy to whip up anytime. They're addictive and simple to slice!

Prep Time

10 min

Cooking Time

20 min

Total Time

30 min

By: Ana

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yields: 9 Servings (9 delicious squares)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

02 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

03 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

04 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

05 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

06 1/2 cup granulated sugar

07 1/2 cup butter, softened

08 1 large egg

09 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

10 1 cup chocolate chips (about half a standard 12 oz bag)

Steps

Step 01

Cover the bottom of a 9x9 inch pan with parchment or coat it evenly with nonstick spray.

Step 02

Set your oven to 350°F and let it preheat.

Step 03

Toss together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt in one bowl. Stir until it’s fully blended.

Step 04

Using a second bowl, blend butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until the mix is smooth and fluffy.

Step 05

Drop in the egg and pour in vanilla extract. Use the electric mixer to blend well.

Step 06

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet mix. Keep mixing gently until everything just comes together. Stop before you overdo it.

Step 07

Gently stir the chocolate chips into the dough until they’re evenly spread out.

Step 08

Scoop the dough into your pan and spread it out so it’s even.

Step 09

Pop it into the oven for 20-22 minutes. Watch for the top to turn golden brown—or bake it a little less for more chew.

Step 10

Once cooled down, take the whole thing out of the pan and cut it into nine squares.

Notes

These bars stay soft and chewy in the middle, while the edges have a nice crisp texture.
Want to take it up a notch? Eat them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top.