Picture this: the rich scent of melted butter and sugar dancing through your kitchen, coaxing everyone nearby to peek in and see what deliciousness is underway. That’s the magic of these Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars! The combination of decadent cookie butter and classic chocolate chip cookies creates a sweet symphony that’s impossible to resist.
I found myself craving a comforting treat one afternoon and decided to combine two of my favorite indulgences into one easy-to-make dessert. The resulting bars are a delightful juxtaposition of warm, gooey chocolate and creamy cookie butter, layered harmoniously to create the perfect sweet bite. Ideal for a weekend baking session or as a last-minute treat for unexpected guests, these bars are not only mouthwatering but also effortlessly simple to make.
Join me on this delightful journey as we whip up a batch of these irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars that you’ll want to share (or keep all to yourself!) at every celebration or cozy night in. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars a must-try?
Decadent flavor profile: The blend of chocolate chips and luscious cookie butter creates an indulgent treat unlike any other.
Easy to make: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time—perfect for any baking novice!
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for parties or gatherings, these treats appeal to both kids and adults alike, making them a guaranteed hit.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate or nut varieties, allowing for endless customization.
Cheat-day delight: Treat yourself with a slice of these bars as a well-deserved indulgence after a long day.
Don’t miss out on making these delightful treats; they’re perfect for sharing—or simply enjoying at home!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars Ingredients
For the Base
- Unsalted butter – This adds richness; always use softened butter for a fluffy texture.
- Granulated sugar – It sweetens and helps create a lovely crust.
- Light brown sugar – It adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Large egg – Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the bars.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making it warm and inviting.
- Kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors in the bars.
- Baking powder – Ensures the bars rise perfectly to achieve a soft texture.
- All-purpose flour – Forms the base; spoon and level for accurate measurement.
- Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – They melt beautifully, creating pockets of gooeyness.
For the Cookie Butter Layer
- Biscoff creamy cookie butter – Adds a uniquely sweet and spiced flavor that’s irresistible.
- Unsalted butter, melted – Combines with the cookie butter for a smooth layer.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses the layer with a hint of sweetness.
- Kosher salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness of the cookie butter.
- Powdered sugar – Creates a silky-smooth texture and sweetness.
- Cornstarch – Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Milk – Adds moisture for a smooth spreadable consistency.
For Topping
- Flaky sea salt – A sprinkle on top enhances flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Additional mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – For that extra chocolaty goodness on top.
Get ready to bake your fantastic Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars—they’re sure to brighten your day!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of those delicious bars later.
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Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This step is vital for that delectable texture!
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Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing in kosher salt and baking powder afterward. This combination adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your cookie bars.
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Stir in the all-purpose flour using a rubber spatula until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing to keep the texture soft and tender.
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Fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully incorporated. Get those sweet morsels evenly distributed for the ultimate chocolaty experience!
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Press half of the dough firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure to fill in any gaps with additional dough for an even base.
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Whisk together the Biscoff creamy cookie butter and melted unsalted butter in a medium bowl until smooth. This creates the rich layer that will make your bars irresistible.
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Combine the vanilla extract and kosher salt into the cookie butter mixture, then fold in the powdered sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth. You’ll love how creamy this layer turns out!
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Spread the cookie butter dough over the chocolate chip cookie base evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Crumble the remaining chocolate chip dough over the top, creating a lovely, rustic appearance while covering the cookie butter layer.
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Sprinkle additional mini semi-sweet chocolate chips on top to boost the chocolaty goodness, then bake for 28-32 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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Press down the edges gently with a butter knife when fresh from the oven to ensure even cooling and a tidy edge. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
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Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for that gourmet touch and let the bars cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
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Slice the chilled bars and enjoy! Running a knife along the edges first helps release them cleanly from the pan.
Optional: Dust with a bit more powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars
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Butter Matters: Always use unsalted butter for both the base and cookie butter layer. It helps control the flavor and enhances the overall richness.
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Don’t Overmix: When stirring in the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough bars instead of the desired soft texture.
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Layer evenness: Press the chocolate chip dough firmly into the pan for a solid foundation. This prevents gaps and ensures an even bake for your bars.
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Gooey Goodness: For that gooey center, underbake slightly. The bars will continue to set while cooling, resulting in a melty, decadent interior.
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Cool Before Slicing: Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps them hold their shape and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
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Flaky Sea Salt Finish: Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top! It elevates the sweet flavor and adds a delightful crunch, making your Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars truly irresistible.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars are perfect for meal prep aficionados looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and storing the raw dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cookie butter layer can also be made ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful flavor and texture, ensure both components are tightly wrapped. When you’re ready to bake, simply press the cookie dough into the pan, layer on the prepared cookie butter, and crumble the remaining dough on top. Bake as directed for delicious results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the bars in a covered container for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars warm, simply microwave a serving for about 10-15 seconds, or until warm, but be careful not to overheat!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars?
Imagine an afternoon gathering filled with laughter and sweet flavors wafting through the air, enticing everyone to indulge in delightful pairings with these bar-style treats.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast against the warm, gooey bars. The cold creaminess rounds out each decadent bite.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries brings a refreshing acidity that cuts through the sweetness, making each dessert moment more balanced and exciting.
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Espresso or Coffee: Pair these bars with a robust cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the brew complements the sweetness, enhancing the bars’ rich flavors.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars keeps the chocolate theme alive and elevates their presentation—perfect for special occasions!
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Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel sauce drizzled on top will add a buttery, sweet layer that transforms each bite into a luxurious experience that feels indulgent.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for an extra layer of texture. The nuttiness adds a delightful element that pairs well with the soft bars.
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Milk: A classic and comforting pairing, a tall glass of cold milk enhances the sweet flavors while also satisfying childhood cravings—there’s just something magical about it!
These pairings ensure that your Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars shine, making any occasion extra sweet and memorable!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your bars for your liking!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch and rich flavor. The combined texture with the cookie butter is delightful!
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Oatmeal Twist: Substitute 1 cup of flour with 1 cup of rolled oats for a chewier, heartier base. This variation adds a wholesome touch that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon into the cookie dough for a warming, aromatic boost. You’ll love the cozy flavor it brings with each delicious bite!
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Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of cookie butter for a nut-free alternative that still delivers a creamy, delightful experience. Perfect for school-friendly snacks!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-intolerant friends. The taste remains amazing, and everyone can join in on the fun!
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Dark Chocolate Indulgence: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more sophisticated flavor. The bittersweet notes balance the sweetness of the cookie butter beautifully.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cookie butter layer before adding the crumbled dough. Each slice will have a gooey surprise that elevates the flavor!
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Toffee Bits: Fold in 1/2 cup of toffee bits with the chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness. This will create a delightful crunch and a pop of buttery goodness!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best butter for my Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars?
Absolutely! Always choose unsalted butter for both the base and cookie butter layer. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in your recipe, enhancing the rich flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars?
For up to 3 days, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture!
Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze, individually wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take out a bar and let it thaw in the fridge, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What should I do if my cookie bars come out too crumbly?
If your bars are too crumbly, it could be due to overmixing the flour or not enough moisture. Make sure to mix the flour gently until just combined, and check for the correct butter measurements. Slightly underbaking can also help create a softer texture. If they are too crumbly, you can think about enjoying them as cookie crumbles over ice cream for a delightful twist!
Are Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars safe for my pets, like dogs?
Unfortunately, the ingredients in Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars are not safe for pets. Specifically, chocolate can be toxic to dogs. Always be cautious about sharing human treats with your furry friends and opt for pet-friendly snacks instead.
What can I substitute for Biscoff cookie butter in the recipe?
If you can’t find Biscoff cookie butter or prefer an alternative, try using any other creamy cookie spread, like Nutella or a homemade cookie butter! Just ensure the alternative is smooth in texture for the best results, but keep in mind that flavor profiles will differ slightly.
Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Butter Bars to Satisfy Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of those delicious bars later.
- Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing in kosher salt and baking powder afterward.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour using a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully incorporated.
- Press half of the dough firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- Whisk together the Biscoff creamy cookie butter and melted unsalted butter in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Combine the vanilla extract and kosher salt into the cookie butter mixture, then fold in the powdered sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth.
- Spread the cookie butter dough over the chocolate chip cookie base evenly.
- Crumble the remaining chocolate chip dough over the top.
- Sprinkle additional mini semi-sweet chocolate chips on top, then bake for 28-32 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Press down the edges gently with a butter knife when fresh from the oven to ensure even cooling.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for that gourmet touch and let the bars cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
- Slice the chilled bars and enjoy!