Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat, combining the gooey richness of cookies with the ease of a bar. These decadent squares are packed with melty chocolate chips and a soft, chewy center that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, they’re ready in just 45 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or impromptu gatherings.
The buttery base, golden edges, and pockets of warm chocolate create a symphony of textures and flavors that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, with a hint of vanilla enhancing the chocolate’s depth. These bars are not just delicious but also versatile—great for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast (we won’t judge!). With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you’ll have more time to enjoy their irresistible aroma as they bake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a foolproof way to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to your table.
What You’ll Need for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled for at least 5 minutes
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk, room temperature preferred
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups (285 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (cornflour in the UK)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9″ (23x23cm) pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing and flouring it.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted (cooled) butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir well until fully combined.
- Add the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until everything is well-combined and smooth.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until completely combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting and serving. Tip: They’re amazing when served slightly warm!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a cozy treat, serve them warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. They’re also great for parties — cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing!
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try adding ½ cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. For a fun twist, swap out the semisweet chocolate chips for white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips. You can also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
Quick Tips for Success
To save time, melt the butter in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients for the most accurate results. And don’t overbake — the bars will continue to set as they cool, so take them out when the edges are just golden brown.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted and then cooled for at least 5 minutes
- 1 cup light brown sugar firmly packed
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk room temperature preferred
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch cornflour in the UK
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9×9″ (23x23cm) pan (see note) by lining with parchment paper (or lightly grease and flour).
- Combine melted (cooled) butter and sugars in a large bowl, stir well.
- Add eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and stir until well-combined.
- In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet until completely combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
- Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake on 350F (175C) for 35 minutes or until edges just begin to turn golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting and serving (don’t cool too long, though — these are amazing when served still slightly warm!).