Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Lazy chocolate chip cookie bars are the ultimate dessert for when you’re short on time but craving something sweet and satisfying. These bars are soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey chocolate chips, offering all the goodness of classic cookies without the need to scoop individual dough balls. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or anytime you need a quick dessert fix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No chilling, scooping, or fussing—just mix, spread, and bake.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe even more convenient.
• Soft and Chewy: The perfect texture, with crisp edges and a soft, gooey center.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, candies, or white chocolate chips.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chocolate chips

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth.
   • Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
   • Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top for extra appeal.
5. Spread the Batter:
   • Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly into the corners.
6. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Be careful not to overbake for a soft, chewy texture.
7. Cool and Slice:
   • Let the bars cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars, depending on size
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.
• Double Chocolate: Use half semisweet and half white chocolate chips, or mix in cocoa powder for chocolate dough.
• Candy Lovers: Add M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped candy bars for a fun twist.
• Oatmeal Twist: Replace ½ cup of flour with quick oats for an oatmeal cookie bar variation.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking and sprinkle with sea salt.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy them as is or warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, chilling is not required, making this recipe perfect for lazy or last-minute baking.

Can I use a smaller pan?

Yes, but the bars will be thicker, and you’ll need to increase the baking time slightly.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should look set but still slightly soft for a chewy texture.

Can I use dark brown sugar?

Yes, dark brown sugar will add a deeper molasses flavor and richer color.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Dried fruit, shredded coconut, or toffee bits are great additions.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch pans, or use a larger sheet pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Lazy chocolate chip cookie bars are a deliciously easy treat that brings the comforting flavors of classic chocolate chip cookies to your table in no time. Perfect for lazy weekends, quick desserts, or potlucks, this recipe is a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite. Customize it to your heart’s content, and enjoy the gooey goodness in every bite!

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