There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. But what if you could capture all that nostalgic flavor in one easy-to-bake, gooey square? That’s exactly what these Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars deliver—soft, chewy centers, golden edges, and melty chocolate in every bite.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy family nights, this recipe is a fuss-free alternative to traditional cookies. No scooping, no batch baking—just one pan, one bake, and plenty of treats to share.
Why You’ll Love These Cookie Bars
✔ One-pan recipe – No multiple trays or long baking sessions.
✔ Quick & easy – From mixing to slicing, everything is simple.
✔ Perfect texture – Soft, chewy inside with lightly crisp tops.
✔ Crowd-pleasing – Easy to slice and share for any occasion.
If you love classic chocolate chip cookies but want an easier method, this recipe is the best of both worlds.
What Makes Cookie Bars Different?
Cookie bars have the same flavor you know and love, but with a few perks:
- Thicker & gooier – Soft, bakery-style texture in every slice.
- No scooping required – Just press the dough into a pan.
- Less time-consuming – Everything bakes in one batch.
They’re the relaxed, no-fuss cousin of chocolate chip cookies—equally irresistible, just easier.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into these rich and chewy cookie bars:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
These pantry staples combine to create gooey perfection with chocolate in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with both sugars until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually stir into wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Stir in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Press Into Pan
Spread dough evenly into prepared pan, smoothing the top.
6. Bake
Bake 28–32 minutes, until golden on top and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. Cool & Slice
Cool at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares for neat slices.
Tips for the Best Cookie Bars
- Use melted butter for a chewy texture and rich flavor.
- Don’t overbake—bars should look just set in the middle.
- For a bakery-style touch, press a few extra chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Let cool before slicing to keep bars from crumbling.
Variations & Add-Ins
These cookie bars are endlessly customizable! Try:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- Swirling in peanut butter or Nutella before baking
- Replacing chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for sweet-salty contrast
Storage & Freezing
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
- Fridge: Keeps for 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Microwave 10–15 seconds to rewarm.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with ice cream, wrap as edible gifts, or cut into bite-sized squares for parties. They also pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are everything you love about cookies—just easier, gooier, and perfect for sharing. Whether for a crowd or a cozy night in, this recipe is foolproof, quick, and guaranteed to satisfy every sweet tooth.