When you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the answer. Packed with gooey chocolate chips, a hint of vanilla, and a rich buttery flavor, they satisfy that cookie craving with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll walk you through every step to make these bars effortlessly, with tips, FAQs, and a guide to get the perfect cookie texture every time.
Why You’ll Love These Cookie Bars
No Fancy Tools Needed: No stand mixer, no dough chilling, and no rolling – just mix, pour, and bake!
Rich, Buttery Flavor: Thanks to melted butter, these bars offer a moist and chewy texture.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a quick dessert, a party treat, or a snack, these cookie bars fit the bill.
Ingredients for Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (With Measurements)
To keep things simple, this recipe uses basic pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: Using melted butter gives these bars a chewy, moist texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and texture.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that classic chocolate chip cookie flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bars.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 2 cups chocolate chips: Adds gooey, melty chocolate goodness.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal of the bars once baked.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix them until smooth and well-blended. This step is crucial to ensure the sugars dissolve and incorporate fully with the butter.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar and butter mixture. Stir until the eggs are fully incorporated, giving the batter a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will help the cookie bars maintain structure and avoid becoming overly dense.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can make the bars dense and tough, so mix gently.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be sure to reserve a handful of chips to sprinkle on top if you want an extra gooey layer on the surface.
Step 7: Spread the Batter and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform thickness. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting. Cooling helps them set and makes slicing easier, resulting in neat, delicious bars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Salted Butter Instead of Unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you might want to reduce the added salt to about 1/4 teaspoon to avoid an overly salty taste.
What Type of Chocolate Chips Should I Use?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best, but feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-Ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and pair well with chocolate. Add about 1/2 cup of nuts for a delicious variation.
How Do I Store These Cookie Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months – simply thaw and enjoy!
Can I Make These Cookie Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour. They might have a slightly different texture, but the flavor remains delicious.
Conclusion: The Perfect Lazy Dessert
These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are proof that a delicious dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep, basic ingredients, and a short bake time, these bars are ideal for last-minute get-togethers, satisfying weeknight cravings, or gifting to friends and family. Enjoy the chewy texture, rich flavor, and gooey chocolate in every bite – no special skills required! Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.