Description of this recipe
Indulge in the warm, gooey, and utterly delightful experience of Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! This quick and easy dessert merges the rich flavor of chocolate chip cookies with the convenience of a bar format, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle of traditional cookie baking. With just a handful of ingredients, these cookie bars are ideal for novice bakers and busy home cooks alike.
Why you will love this recipe
If you’re seeking a dessert that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, look no further. These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars can be made in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a sweet craving. The combination of melted butter, rich chocolate, and soft, cake-like texture creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. However, the traditional method of rolling out cookie dough and waiting for batches to bake isn’t always feasible for those with busy schedules. Enter Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! This recipe captures all the nostalgic flavors of chocolate chip cookies but requires significantly less effort and a fraction of the time.
Imagine slicing into a thick, chewy bar loaded with semi-sweet chocolate chips while your family eagerly awaits a taste. These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re preparing a quick dessert for a family gathering or a late-night treat for yourself, these cookie bars will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 stick of butter (1/2 cup), melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to prepare your baking pan by generously greasing a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure that your cookie bars release easily once they’re baked.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, melt the stick of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until completely liquid. Allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
Step 3:
Whisk the two large eggs directly into the melted butter until well combined. This step is crucial as it will provide the moist, chewy texture characteristic of chocolate chip cookies.
Step 4:
Gradually stir in the yellow cake mix, ensuring there are no lumps. The mix will thicken as you combine it with the wet ingredients. This is the secret to getting that cookie-like texture in bar form!
Step 5:
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. The chocolate chips melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey chocolate you won’t be able to resist.
Step 6:
Pour the buttery cake batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars after the 20-minute mark; they should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. For smaller pans, extend the baking time to 25-28 minutes.
Step 7:
Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period will help the bars set properly. Once they’ve cooled slightly, slice into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Serving Suggestions:
These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch, drizzle with warm caramel sauce or chocolate syrup to create an indulgent dessert experience.
Tips:
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your cookie bars! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for a longer shelf life.
- Freezing: Make a double batch and freeze some for later! Cut into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge whenever you’re ready for a treat.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20-28 minutes
Total Time:
30-38 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 220 per bar (based on 24 servings)
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 125mg
Conclusion
Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate solution for those who crave something sweet but don’t have the time or energy for traditional baking. Their simplicity, delightful flavor, and chewy texture will endear them to friends and family alike. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and dive into a dessert that truly celebrates the joy of baking without the fuss!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, you can experiment with chocolate, vanilla, or even funfetti mixes for a unique twist on these bars.
2. How should I store leftover bars?
Keep any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness.
3. Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Yes! You can freeze the bars for later enjoyment. Simply cut into squares, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
4. Are these cookie bars suitable for any dietary restrictions?
This recipe contains wheat, eggs, and dairy. To make them gluten-free, try using a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that the chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
5. What’s the best way to serve these bars?
They are delightful served warm on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a decadent dessert.
Indulge in these delicious Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, and discover how a little simplicity can lead to incredible satisfaction!
