Ultimate Gooey Chocolate Bars

Irresistibly soft and chewy cookie bars packed with melty chocolate chips and a buttery, golden crust—perfect for sharing at any occasion.

This recipe quickly became my go-to dessert for gatherings because everyone loves the gooey center and crispy edges.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled, 1 1/4 cups (250 g) packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs room temperature, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Add-Ins: 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips, Optional 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate foods quickly for crispy snacks and easy everyday meals.

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Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl whisk together the flour baking soda and salt. Set aside.

Step 3:

In a large bowl mix the melted butter brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 4:

Add the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5:

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6:

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).

Step 7:

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8:

Bake for 23–28 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is just set (do not overbake for gooey bars).

Step 9:

Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool lift out and cut into bars.

Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate foods quickly for crispy snacks and easy everyday meals.

Check price on Amazon

Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate foods quickly for crispy snacks and easy everyday meals.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe has created countless joyful moments with my family especially during holiday baking days.

Notes

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Required Tools

9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Spatula, Parchment paper, Wire rack

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) eggs milk (butter chocolate) and may contain tree nuts if added. Always check chocolate chips and other packaged ingredients for possible allergens.

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Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

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These bars are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Recipe Q&A

→ How can I achieve the perfect gooey texture?

To keep the bars gooey, slightly underbake them so the centers stay soft while the edges turn golden. Let them cool fully in the pan for proper setting.

→ What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semisweet chocolate chips provide a balanced sweetness, but feel free to use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.

→ Can I add nuts to the bars?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor, but they are optional.

→ What’s the best way to store the bars?

Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can these bars be served warm?

Absolutely. Serving them slightly warm enhances the melty chocolate experience, especially paired with vanilla ice cream.