Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, gooey chocolate chip cookie bar that's impossibly easy to make and impossibly delicious to eat! These Chocolate Chip Cake Mix Cookie Bars are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen - a no-fuss dessert that looks like you spent hours baking, but takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you're a busy parent, a baking novice, or a dessert enthusiast, this recipe will revolutionize your sweet treat game and have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bars
Ingredients
- 1 package chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix thoroughly using an electric mixer or whisk until the ingredients are completely blended and no dry mix remains.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) gently with a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, uniform surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Remove from oven and let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. This allows them to set and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, cut into 24 equal-sized bars using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the bars tender and soft.
- Even Distribution: Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan for consistent baking.
- Toothpick Test: Check doneness carefully - a few moist crumbs are perfect, but wet batter means it needs more time.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling and achieve clean slices.
- Customize Your Bars: Experiment with different mix-ins like white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or crushed nuts for variety.
- Storage Tip: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container and enjoy within 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
