Craving a sweet treat that doesn't completely derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! These Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Bars are the ultimate game-changer that proves you can have your chocolate and eat it too. Packed with wholesome whole wheat flour and studded with rich chocolate chips, these bars are about to become your new obsession. Get ready to transform your snack time with a recipe that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 16 equal bars and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the smoothest, most well-incorporated batter.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars.
- Chocolate Chip Distribution: Fold chocolate chips gently to ensure they're evenly spread throughout the dough.
- Check for Doneness: The bars are ready when the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain their shape.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container and enjoy within 5 days – if they last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
