Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of brown butter and chocolate. When these two come together in the form of a cookie bar, it’s pure bliss. These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are thick, chewy, and bursting with melted chocolate chunks and chips. The nutty flavor of the brown butter elevates each bite, making them irresistible for any chocolate lover. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, these bars are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars deserve a spot in your kitchen for many reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring no special tools or techniques. Second, they combine the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the sweetness of chocolate, creating a flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying. Finally, the texture! They strike the perfect balance between chewy and slightly crispy around the edges. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these bars will steal the show.

Ingredient Rundown

To make these delightful bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces – This is the star of the show, and browning it adds a deep, rich flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups packed dark brown sugar – For that caramel-like sweetness. Light brown sugar can also be used if that’s what you have.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Just a touch to balance the flavors.
• 2 large eggs – These help bind the ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cookie bars.
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the sweetness of the chocolate.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Provides lift for the bars.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures a soft, chewy texture.
• 1 cup chocolate chunks – For big pockets of melted chocolate.
• 1 cup chocolate chips – Extra chocolate goodness throughout the bars.
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling – A finishing touch that takes these bars over the top.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start baking, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix your wet ingredients thoroughly.
• Spatula – For folding the chocolate into the batter.
• 9×13 inch baking pan – The perfect size for these cookie bars.
• Parchment paper – For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.

Cook Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Like This

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until it turns a golden brown and smells nutty. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Sugars and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and baking powder.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars tough.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate

Gently fold in the chocolate chunks and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-salty contrast. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

These cookie bars are versatile, and you can easily modify them for different seasons. Consider trying:

• Autumn: Add in some chopped pecans or walnuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm fall flavor.
• Winter: Incorporate white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a festive touch.
• Spring: Mix in some pastel-colored chocolate candies for a fun, vibrant look.
• Summer: Swap out chocolate for peanut butter chips and add crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty crunch.

Author’s Commentary

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars have quickly become my go-to dessert. The process of browning the butter is so rewarding, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply divine. The chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor make these bars a crowd-pleaser, and I love how easy they are to whip up. They’re perfect for a last-minute gathering or a cozy night in with a good book and a cup of coffee.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to prepare these bars ahead of time, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring the dough back to room temperature before spreading it into the baking pan. Once baked, these cookie bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge!

Questions People Ask

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty bars.

What can I substitute for chocolate chunks and chips?

If you don’t have chocolate chunks or chips, you can use any type of chocolate you have on hand, such as chopped chocolate bars or even a mix of different types of chocolate.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become dry.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even toffee bits to customize your cookie bars to your taste.

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• Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delicious cookie recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Check out their unique flavor combinations.
• Minimalist Baker – Perfect for simple, quality ingredients in baking.

Final Bite

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the quintessential treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or sneaking a piece on your own, they are bound to bring joy with every bite. The rich flavor of the browned butter combined with the gooey chocolate creates an unforgettable experience that’s hard to resist. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake something extraordinary. You won’t regret it!