Description

Dense, chewy, and buttery chocolate chip cookie bars that are perfect for game day. Easy to make, forgiving for beginners, and customizable with various mix-ins.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Sea salt flakes (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or with a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and the center looks set but slightly soft.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt flakes if using.
Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 30 minutes) before cutting into squares.

Notes

For best results, use softened butter, not melted. Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid dry bars. Bars continue to cook after removal from the oven, so pull them when the center looks slightly underdone. For clean cuts, chill the pan in the fridge for 15 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 150
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: chocolate chip cookie bars, football season snacks, game day dessert, easy baking, 5-ingredient cookies, chewy cookie bars