Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars

There’s something magical about Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars that makes my heart flutter every time I take a bite. I remember the first time I baked these delightful bars; the aroma of melting chocolate and creamy cookie butter filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible allure that pulled my family into the room. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and with a warm cup of tea in hand, I decided it was the perfect day to whip up a sweet treat. As I mixed the ingredients together, anticipation built, knowing we were in for a delicious dessert. The way the chocolate chunks melted into gooey pockets of goodness, combined with the rich flavor of cookie butter, made it a dessert to remember. Each bite is a reminder of the joy of baking and sharing sweet moments with loved ones.

What You Need for Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars

The ingredients for these bars are not only simple but work harmoniously to create a delicious dessert. Cookie butter serves as the star, providing a creamy richness that binds the ingredients together. The sugars add just the right amount of sweetness, while chocolate gives that gooey texture that everyone loves. Not to forget, the touch of cinnamon elevates the flavors to a new level.

• 1 cup creamy cookie butter: The base of our bars, providing a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds sweetness and moisture.
• 1/3 cup **granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps with texture.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla: For depth of flavor.
• 1 large egg plus one egg yolk: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1/4 cup molasses (not black strap): Adds moisture and a hint of depth to the flavor.
• 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (not packed!): Gives the bars structure.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness.
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped into chunks: For that gooey chocolate goodness.
• 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped into chunks, for topping the bars with after they’ve been baked: Extra chocolate for a rich finish.
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling: A touch of salt on top enhances the flavors.

Making Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars

Baking Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature for baking these bars, ensuring that they cook evenly and develop the perfect texture.

2. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or tin foil and spray well with non-stick baking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal later on.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cookie butter on medium-high until it’s smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. You want it to be light and fluffy.

4. Add in both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, along with the vanilla. Continue beating for another 2 to 3 minutes, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This will help incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

5. Next, beat in the egg and egg yolk, followed by the molasses. Mixing these ingredients well is important for achieving the right consistency.

6. Turn off the mixer and add in the flour, cinnamon, and salt. Turn the mixer back on at a low speed, mixing just until combined. This should take no longer than a minute. The batter will be very thick at this point, and it’s important not to add any more liquid.

7. Carefully fold in the chocolate chunks, mixing just until combined. At this stage, you want to see those lovely chunks dispersed throughout the batter.

8. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer. This ensures that your bars will bake evenly.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 32 minutes. The edges should be set and the center may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for achieving that gooey texture.

10. Once baked, place the pan of cookie butter bars on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing. This waiting period is crucial for achieving the right texture.

11. If you want to add extra chocolate chunks on top, do this right when the cookie bars come out of the oven. Let the chocolate melt slightly before sprinkling them on top.

Tips and Variations

When it comes to Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars, there are endless possibilities for making them your own. Here are some tips and variations to consider.

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Once cooled and cut, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
• Pairing: Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of espresso powder for a mocha flavor, or mix in some chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
• Serving Size: Feel free to cut these bars into smaller squares for a bite-sized treat perfect for parties.
• Chocolate Swap: Try using dark chocolate or even white chocolate chunks for a different taste.

What to Serve Alongside Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars

When it comes to serving Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars, there are several delightful options to consider that can complement this rich dessert and elevate your dining experience.

• Fresh Fruit: Pair these bars with a side of fresh berries or slices of bananas. The natural sweetness and acidity from the fruit can cut through the richness.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or even salted caramel ice cream makes an excellent pairing, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors of the bars. Choices like mocha or chai complement the richness beautifully.
• Seasonal Occasions: Serve them during gatherings or celebrations like birthdays or holidays where a sweet treat is appreciated.
• Picnic Treat: These bars are perfect for taking along to a picnic. They travel well and are easy to share.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For added flair, drizzle some melted chocolate over the bars before serving. It not only looks beautiful but adds additional flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, **Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars** are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them truly special. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone. I encourage you to try making them and experience the joy they bring to your gatherings. Happy baking!

Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars

The ultimate treat for chocolate lovers! These **Gooey Chocolate Chunk Cookie Butter Bars** are rich, decadent, and incredibly easy to make. With a magical blend of cookie butter and chocolate, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll want to make these bars tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup creamy cookie butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup molasses (not black strap)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (not packed!)
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chopped into chunks
• 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chopped into chunks, for topping the bars with after they've been baked
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature for baking these bars, ensuring that they cook evenly and develop the perfect texture.
• Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or tin foil and spray well with non-stick baking spray. This step is crucial for easy removal later on.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cookie butter on medium-high until it’s smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. You want it to be light and fluffy.
• Add in both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, along with the vanilla. Continue beating for another 2 to 3 minutes, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This will help incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
• Next, beat in the egg and egg yolk, followed by the molasses. Mixing these ingredients well is important for achieving the right consistency.
• Turn off the mixer and add in the flour, cinnamon, and salt. Turn the mixer back on at a low speed, mixing just until combined. This should take no longer than a minute. The batter will be very thick at this point, and it's important not to add any more liquid.
• Carefully fold in the chocolate chunks, mixing just until combined. At this stage, you want to see those lovely chunks dispersed throughout the batter.
• Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer. This ensures that your bars will bake evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 32 minutes. The edges should be set and the center may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for achieving that gooey texture.
• Once baked, place the pan of cookie butter bars on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing. This waiting period is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• If you want to add extra chocolate chunks on top, do this right when the cookie bars come out of the oven. Let the chocolate melt slightly before sprinkling them on top.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious!
• Tip 2: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Once cooled and cut, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
• Tip 3: Pair these bars with a side of fresh berries or slices of bananas. The natural sweetness and acidity from the fruit can cut through the richness.
• Tip 4: A scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or even salted caramel ice cream makes an excellent pairing, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Tip 5: Serve them during gatherings or celebrations like birthdays or holidays where a sweet treat is appreciated.

Keyword chocolate chunk dessert, cookie butter bars, easy dessert recipe, gooey cookie bars

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!