What is a cookie bar?

A cookie bar is a baked dessert made from cookie dough that’s pressed into a pan and baked as one solid piece instead of individual scoops. After baking, it’s cut into squares or rectangles for serving. Chocolate chip cookie bars are one of the most popular versions because they combine the chewy texture of cookies with the simplicity of brownies. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you need an easy yet impressive sweet treat.

How to turn cookies into cookie bars?

Turning cookies into bars is simple. Use your favorite cookie dough, press it evenly into a greased or lined baking pan, and bake it at 350°F for about 20 to 30 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing. The result is thick, chewy, and delicious chocolate chip cookie bars . For an added twist, you can layer ingredients like caramel, nuts, or even frosting for extra flavor.

What is a chip cookie?

A chip cookie is the classic chocolate chip cookie —a soft, chewy, or crispy cookie filled with chocolate chips. When this dough is baked in a pan, it becomes chocolate chip cookie bars . The recipe is nearly identical, but the pan-baked version is denser and stays moist longer, making it ideal for sharing or gifting.

How long do you cook chocolate chip cookie bars for?

The best baking time for chocolate chip cookie bars is 20 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Check at the 20-minute mark; the edges should be golden and the center slightly soft. Avoid overbaking so they stay chewy. They’ll continue cooking a bit in the pan after removal from the oven. Cool them completely before slicing for clean edges and perfect texture.

Why is it called a wedding cookie?

Wedding cookies got their name because they were traditionally served at weddings in various cultures. They’re buttery, nutty, and rolled in powdered sugar to resemble snowballs. Unlike chocolate chip cookie bars , which are soft and chewy, wedding cookies are crumbly and delicate. Both, however, symbolize comfort and celebration.

Are cookies still legal?

Yes, cookies are absolutely legal. The confusion comes from digital “cookies” that websites use to store data, not the edible ones. The edible kind—like chocolate chip cookie bars —are as legal and beloved as ever. Bake freely and share the sweetness without worry!

Why do they call it a milk bar?

The term “milk bar” originated from cafes that served milk, shakes, and sweets as wholesome alternatives to pubs. Today, it refers to modern dessert shops that serve indulgent treats like cookie bars and cake slices. These places celebrate nostalgic desserts with a creative twist.

What the heck are cookies?

Cookies are small baked desserts made with butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and mix-ins like chocolate chips. They come in many forms—crispy, chewy, or soft. Chocolate chip cookie bars are simply cookies baked in a single layer and cut into pieces. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and universally loved.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: Best Chewy Dessert Ever (2025)

Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, melted; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup white sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat – Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Sugars – In a bowl, mix melted butter with brown and white sugar until smooth.
Step 3: Add Wet & Dry Ingredients – Add eggs and vanilla extract, then stir in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips – Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
Step 5: Bake – Spread dough into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 6: Cool & Slice – Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Notes

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These are also freezer-friendly.

Author: Mike
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 220
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: chocolate chip cookie bars, cookie bar recipe, chewy cookie bars