This recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is attributed to Ruth Wakefield, the inventor of the chocolate chip cookie. These bars are a delicious and easy-to-make variation of her classic cookie recipe, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet treat.

  • Source: King Arthur Baking Company Cookie Companion

Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups (330g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 10 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks, 151g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 1/4 cups (479g) brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (340g) chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (114g) chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

  2. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to make it easy to lift the bars out of the pan after baking.

  3. In a large bowl, whisk together: flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  4. In another large bowl, combine:

    • melted butter
    • brown sugar
    • Stir until smooth.

  5. Stir in vanilla.

  6. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

  7. Stir in the flour mixture, then the chocolate chips and nuts

  8. Spread the batter into the prepared pan.

  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until their top is shiny and golden.

    • Do not overbake, or the bars will be dry
    • A cake tester inserted in the center will not come out clean

  10. Remove the bars from the oven and cool to room temperature before cutting.

Variations

M&M Cookie Bars:

  • Substitute M&M’s for the chocolate chips.