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Chocolate chip cookies have long been a cherished staple in American baking, beloved for their delightful blend of buttery sweetness and rich chocolatey goodness. From classic recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations, the allure of chocolate chip cookies is undeniable. However, have you ever found yourself craving that same soft, chewy texture but in an easier-to-make format? Enter cookie bars – a game-changer for cookie lovers!

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Indulge in the ultimate treat with this chewy chocolate chip cookie bars recipe! Perfectly easy to make, these bars combine the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies into a convenient and delicious dessert. Enjoy a soft, chewy texture packed with melty chocolate chips with every bite. These cookie bars are ideal for gatherings, lunchboxes, or a sweet after-dinner treat. Follow our step-by-step guide for baking success, and elevate your baking game today!
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Ingredients
  

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed firmly

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 cup chopped nuts (optional; walnuts or pecans are great choices!)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for effortless removal later on.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

      Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter along with both granulated and brown sugars. Continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take around 2-3 minutes.

        Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually introduce the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the texture.

            Fold in Chocolate Chips & Nuts: Using a spatula, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if desired, the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

              Spread in Pan: Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top for a neat appearance.

                Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The cookie bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid any wet batter).

                  Cool and Cut: Once baked, allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. If you used parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares or rectangles.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Slice your delicious chewy cookie bars and relish in their gooey goodness! These treats are perfect for serving at parties, indulging in snacks, or enjoying as dessert.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                        15 minutes | 45 minutes | Yields 24 bars

                          Optional Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, dust the tops of the bars with a light sprinkle of sea salt or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.