Introduction
For those days when you crave homemade cookies but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect solution. These delightful bars offer all the deliciousness of traditional chocolate chip cookies with half the effort. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for any sweet tooth.
Overview of the Recipe
Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a simple yet indulgent dessert. Made with melted butter, a combination of brown and granulated sugars, and plenty of semi-sweet chocolate chips, these bars come together quickly and bake to perfection in just 25 minutes. With a chewy center and crispy edges, they deliver the ultimate cookie experience in bar form.
History and Origin
Chocolate chip cookies were invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. This recipe for cookie bars takes the classic cookie dough and simplifies the process by spreading it in a baking dish. This method not only saves time but also ensures evenly baked, consistently delicious treats every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the bars remain tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread the Dough: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and make them easier to cut.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Pair them with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy and indulgent experience.
Variations of the Recipe
- Nutty Cookie Bars: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Double Chocolate: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey variation.
- Festive Cookie Bars: Add colorful sprinkles or M&M’s to the dough for a festive twist, perfect for holidays or parties.
Health Benefits Notes
While these cookie bars are a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet when paired with nutrient-rich foods. For a slightly healthier version, consider reducing the sugar content or substituting some of the flour with whole wheat flour.
FAQs
Can I use a different size baking dish?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. A smaller dish will result in thicker bars and may require a longer baking time, while a larger dish will produce thinner bars that bake more quickly.
How do I store the cookie bars?
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Greasing the baking dish with butter or non-stick spray works just as well. Parchment paper simply makes it easier to lift the bars out of the dish for cutting.
Conclusion
Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With their chewy texture, rich chocolate chips, and ease of preparation, these bars are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family treat, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of these Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make them your own!