Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: 

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the epitome of comfort food. They combine the classic goodness of chocolate chip cookies with the simplicity of a bar, making them perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to an indulgent self-care evening. These bars are soft, chewy, and packed with melty chocolate chips, offering a delightful treat for cookie lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the bars less chewy.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips (and Nuts, If Desired)

1. Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in as well.

Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Pan

1. Spread the cookie bar dough evenly into the greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 8: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake to keep the bars chewy.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

1. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into your desired size and shape while they’re still warm.

Step 10: Enjoy!

1. Once they’re completely cool, remove the bars from the pan and enjoy your chewy chocolate chip cookie bars.

Notes:

• You can customize these bars with your favorite add-ins, such as white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dried fruit.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
• These bars are versatile; you can also crumble them over ice cream, use them as a base for a cookie bar sundae, or enjoy them as is with a glass of cold milk.

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of chewiness, sweetness, and nostalgia. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them on your own, they’re sure to provide the ultimate comfort and satisfaction.