The Best Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
There’s something heartwarming about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, particularly when they come in the form of decadent chocolate chip cookie bars. These Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special moment, or just indulging in a sweet snack on your own. What makes them oh-so-special? For starters, they come together in just one bowl, require minimal clean-up, and bake up in no time! Plus, they are absolutely ooey-gooey delicious, thanks to those melty chocolate chips that will have you reaching for a second piece before you even realize it!
Sharing a story, I remember my grandma baking chocolate chip cookies every Sunday afternoon, filling her kitchen with warmth and love. It was a ritual I cherished, and I always thought that you could use as many chocolate chips as possible. It’s this nostalgic feeling that inspired me to create a small batch recipe that’s just perfect for today’s busy lives but will still bring that delightful comfort of home baking. You’ll find yourself enjoying these cookie bars just as much as you would a full batch, but without the leftover temptation lingering around for days. So, if you love cookie bars as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to whip up this easy-to-follow recipe and share a slice (or two) with your loved ones!
What is the Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?
Have you ever pondered how something can be both a cookie and a bar? Well, wonder no more! The Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are like the love child of traditional cookies and rich brownies. Think about it: soft, chewy, and filled with gooey chocolate goodness—all in one delightful bar. They’re perfect for those moments when you’re craving dessert but don’t want to commit to a whole cookie sheet. As the old saying goes, "The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach," so why not win over your loved ones with these crowd-pleasers? Trust me, you’ll want to give this recipe a whirl!
Why You’ll Love These Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
The ultimate chocolate chip cookie experience in bar form! First up, these bars are a quick and simple delight to whip up. Rather than creating dozens of cookies, this recipe makes just enough bars to satisfy your chocolate craving without overwhelming you with leftovers. Plus, when you make them at home, you’re cutting costs while enjoying that fresh-baked taste.
What makes these bars even more delightful is the combination of brown sugar and butter, creating a rich butterscotch flavor that pairs perfectly with the semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can switch it up with your favorite nut toppings or even add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweet flavors. If you enjoy classic cookies, you might also love my classic chocolate chip cookies, but I promise these will make their way into your heart just as easily. So, roll up your sleeves and try making this delightful treat today!
How to Make Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
Quick Overview
Creating these Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is practically foolproof! With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be basking in the aroma of cookies in less than 30 minutes. A fantastic treat for get-togethers or a cozy night in, this recipe ensures that every bite remains deliciously satisfying.
Key Ingredients for Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-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. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Add Egg & Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and egg until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!
What to Serve Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars With:
These cookie bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. If you want to elevate the experience, consider serving them warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Not to mention, they make a perfect addition to any picnic or dessert spread for your next gathering!
Top Tips for Perfecting Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- Upgrade Your Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips can significantly enhance the flavor of your bars. Experiment with dark chocolate chunks or even a mix of milk and semi-sweet chips!
- Don’t Overmix: Make sure not to overmix your batter once you combine dry and wet ingredients; this helps keep the bars tender and chewy.
- Adjust the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; all ovens are different! If they start browning too quickly, consider lowering the temperature slightly.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To store your leftover cookie bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookie bars for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for that freshly baked warmth!
So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves and bring a little chocolatey joy into your life with these Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! You will not be disappointed!
Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and egg until fully incorporated.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Leave a Reply