Recipe Description:

These delicious chocolate chip bars are a perfect blend of chewy and gooey, packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional nuts. They make for a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.

Full Ingredients:

– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans recommended)

Full Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the bowl, mixing until well combined and smooth.
4. Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and add the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
7. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula.
8. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides, and lightly greasing it.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
12. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Once cool, cut into squares or rectangles and serve. Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate or serve with vanilla ice cream.

Notes:

– For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips or a mix of chocolate types.
– Feel free to customize the nuts or add other mix-ins like dried fruit or coconut.
– Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain the chewy texture of the bars.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

25-30 minutes

Total Time:

40-45 minutes

Yield:

Approximately 24 bars (depending on size)