Let’s get one thing straight: if you love chocolate chip cookies (and who doesn’t?), then these Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are about to become your new obsession. We’re talking golden, buttery cookie dough that’s baked into thick, chewy bars and studded with pools of melty chocolate chips in every bite. Oh, and did I mention they’re gooey? Like, close-your-eyes-on-the-first-bite kind of gooey.

They come together in just one bowl, no chill time needed, and no fussing around with scooping individual cookies. It’s cookie heaven, only easier and way more indulgent. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, prepping lunchbox treats, or just craving something ridiculously comforting on a Tuesday afternoon trust me, this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for school events, birthdays, or just because it fits every occasion like a charm.

Budget-Friendly: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.

Quick and Easy: No scooping or chilling just press the dough into a pan and bake.

Customizable: Add chopped nuts, swirl in caramel, or sprinkle with sea salt to make them your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These bars are made with everyday ingredients but taste like something straight from a bakery case. Let’s break it down:

Butter: The base of our cookie bars. Melted butter gives a rich flavor and soft, chewy texture.

Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the bars moist and tender.

Granulated Sugar: Balances out the brown sugar and adds the classic cookie sweetness.

Eggs: They bind everything together and add structure and richness.

Vanilla Extract: A must for that warm, bakery-style flavor.

All-Purpose Flour: The structure behind our gooey bars. Just the right amount keeps them thick and soft.

Baking Soda: Gives a slight lift so the bars don’t end up too dense.

Salt: Enhances every bite and balances the sweetness.

Chocolate Chips: The star of the show use semi-sweet, dark, or milk depending on your vibe.

Optional Add-ins: Chopped nuts, white chocolate, peanut butter chips, or a drizzle of caramel.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined and creamy.

Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—just enough so there are no flour pockets.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, saving a few to press on top for that bakery-style look.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Pour the dough into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Press extra chocolate chips on top if you like.

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still soft. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Finishing Touches

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes if you can wait! This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice into squares and enjoy while still slightly warm for maximum gooeyness. Pair with a cold glass of milk or scoop of vanilla ice cream for the full experience.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: ~320–350 calories

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate dessert moment. Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet midday surprise. Plate with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a more elegant touch. Crumble over a milkshake or yogurt bowl for an indulgent twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Don’t overbake the gooey center is what makes these bars magical. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for contrast and extra flavor. Use high-quality chocolate for the richest taste. Let the bars cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges. Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days (if they last that long!).

FAQ’s

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine can work in a pinch.

2. What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Let them cool fully, then use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and check your chocolate chips are GF.

4. Can I use just brown sugar?
Absolutely! It’ll make the bars extra moist and give a deeper caramel flavor.

5. Can I freeze these?
Yes! Slice and freeze in layers with parchment between. Thaw at room temp or microwave for a few seconds.

6. How can I make these extra gooey?
Slightly underbake them by a couple minutes and use extra chocolate chips.

7. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, for a crowd you can double it and bake in a larger pan just adjust baking time.

8. Are these okay without eggs?
Try substituting with flax eggs or egg replacers they’ll still be tasty, though a bit less chewy.

9. Can I use white chocolate or butterscotch chips?
Definitely! Mix and match for your dream combo.

10. How do I know they’re done baking?
Edges should be golden and the center slightly jiggly. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

These Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are what cookie dreams are made of warm, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth squares of happiness. They’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because your sweet tooth called, this recipe delivers every single time. Go on and treat yourself you deserve this little slice of heaven!

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