Are you looking for a quick and delicious dessert that requires minimal effort? Look no further! These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect solution for those who crave a sweet treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of mouth-watering cookie bars ready in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients :
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 stick of butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 yellow cake mix
- 1 bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips
These ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe even more convenient. The combination of a cake mix and chocolate chips creates a delightful texture that’s soft, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness.
Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter
Begin by melting one stick of butter in a bowl. You can do this using a microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
2. Whisk Together Butter and Eggs
In the same bowl, add the two eggs to the melted butter. Whisk the mixture until it’s well combined. The eggs will help bind the ingredients together, ensuring your cookie bars hold their shape.
3. Stir in the Cake Mix
Next, stir in the yellow cake mix. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want for these cookie bars.
4. Mix in the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Make sure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter for a consistent chocolatey flavor in every bite.
5. Press into Greased Pan
Prepare a baking pan by greasing it to prevent sticking. Press the batter evenly into the pan. For this recipe, a 9×13-inch pan works well, but you can use smaller pans if desired.
6. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan. For smaller pans, bake for 25-28 minutes. The cookie bars should be golden brown on the edges and slightly soft in the center.
Serving and Storage Tips:
After baking your delicious Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you’ll want to ensure they are served and stored properly to maintain their freshness and taste. Here are some helpful tips:
Serving Tips:
- Cooling Time: Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
- Cutting Bars: Use a sharp knife to cut the cookie bars into squares or rectangles. For cleaner cuts, you can lightly grease the knife with cooking spray.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the cookie bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They are also delicious on their own or with a glass of milk.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can store the cookie bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for a few hours or heat them in the microwave for a quick treat.
By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or days later. Enjoy!
Variations:
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, there are plenty of delicious variations to explore. Here are some creative ideas to add a new twist to this classic recipe:
1. Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Add a crunchy texture and rich flavor by incorporating nuts into your cookie bars.
- Ingredients: Follow the original recipe and add 1 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the batter along with the chocolate chips.
- Instructions: Stir in the nuts with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
2. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate for an irresistible treat.
- Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted butter and egg mixture.
- Instructions: Whisk the peanut butter into the melted butter and eggs in step 2. Continue with the recipe as directed.
3. S’mores Cookie Bars
Capture the essence of s’mores by adding graham crackers and marshmallows.
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of crushed graham crackers and 1 cup of mini marshmallows to the batter along with the chocolate chips.
- Instructions: Stir in the graham crackers and marshmallows with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
4. Triple Chocolate Cookie Bars
For chocolate lovers, use a mix of different types of chocolate chips.
- Ingredients: Use a combination of semi-sweet, milk, and white chocolate chips, totaling 2 cups.
- Instructions: Stir in the mixed chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
5. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Add a chewy texture and a hint of wholesome flavor with oats.
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of old-fashioned oats to the batter.
- Instructions: Stir in the oats with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
6. Holiday Cookie Bars
Customize your cookie bars for different holidays with festive add-ins.
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of colored sprinkles or holiday-themed candies (such as M&Ms) to the batter.
- Instructions: Stir in the sprinkles or candies with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
7. Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Incorporate gooey caramel for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of caramel bits or chopped soft caramels to the batter.
- Instructions: Stir in the caramel bits or pieces with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
8. Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Bring a tropical flair with shredded coconut.
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the batter.
- Instructions: Stir in the shredded coconut with the chocolate chips in step 4. Bake as usual.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix such as chocolate, vanilla, or even spice cake mix to change the flavor profile of your cookie bars.
2. How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The cookie bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake them to keep them soft and chewy.
3. Can I add other mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of mix-ins such as nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips to customize your cookie bars to your liking.
4. How should I store the cookie bars to keep them fresh?
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to make a larger batch. Use a larger baking pan or two smaller pans and adjust the baking time as needed.
6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture might be slightly different. Butter generally provides a richer taste.
7. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate chips can be used if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor. You can also mix different types of chocolate chips for a varied taste.
8. What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If the batter is too thick to spread easily, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it up. This will make it easier to press into the pan.
9. How can I make the cookie bars gluten-free?
To make the cookie bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free.
10. Can I add frosting or a glaze to the cookie bars?
Yes, you can top the cookie bars with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or even spread a layer of frosting on top after they have cooled for an extra sweet touch.
In just a few simple steps, you can create these delicious Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick dessert for your family, or just want to satisfy your sweet cravings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of cake and chocolate chips in every bite, and relish the ease of making such a scrumptious treat. Happy baking!