Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Looking for a quick and easy dessert that will satisfy your cravings without all the fuss? These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are your go-to treat! Imagine the gooey, melty goodness of chocolate chip cookies, but in bar form. They’re perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a batch of these delicious bars ready in no time.

There’s something so comforting about the combination of buttery dough and rich chocolate chips. These cookie bars are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—add your favorite nuts, candies, or even a swirl of peanut butter for an extra touch of indulgence.

Recipe Summary

Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate quick and easy dessert. They have all the flavor and texture of classic chocolate chip cookies but with the convenience of a bar cookie. This recipe is perfect for those who love homemade treats but are short on time. In just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious, gooey bars that are perfect for sharing (or not!).

Exciting Story

One lazy Sunday afternoon, I found myself craving something sweet but wasn’t in the mood to spend hours baking. That’s when these Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars were born. I simply whipped up a basic cookie dough, pressed it into a pan, and popped it in the oven. The result? Pure bliss! My family devoured them in minutes, and now they’re a staple in our household whenever we need a quick and easy dessert. These bars are perfect for those moments when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen.

Why These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make this a no-fuss dessert.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts, candies, or even different types of chocolate.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for parties, potlucks, or as a treat for your loved ones.
• One-Pan Wonder: No need to scoop individual cookies—just press the dough into a pan and bake.

How to Make Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using). The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Bake the Bars
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Tips

• Don’t Overbake: For extra gooey bars, slightly underbake them. The center will set as they cool.
• Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and clean-up.
• Add-Ins: Try adding a handful of your favorite nuts, white chocolate chips, or even a swirl of caramel or peanut butter for a fun twist.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Chocolates: Substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Healthier Option: Use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly for a healthier version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce the sugar by half and use a sugar substitute to lower the overall sugar content.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make these bars dairy-free.

Closing

And there you have it! These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, and be sure to check out our other delicious recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Just increase the baking time slightly.

How do I store these cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor or substitute with coconut sugar for a different twist.

What other add-ins can I use?
Get creative with add-ins like shredded coconut, dried fruit, or butterscotch chips.

Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg.

What’s the best way to serve these bars?
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.