Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars

Indulging in a rich, buttery dessert is one of life’s simple pleasures, and these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars are no exception. Imagine the crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture of traditional shortbread combined with the delightful sweetness of chocolate chips. Perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive treat for guests, these bars are incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a decadent dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars lies in their simplicity and the quality of ingredients used. The combination of unsalted butter, sugar, and flour creates a delicate base that is both tender and crumbly. The addition of chocolate chips not only enhances the flavor but also brings a delightful texture contrast to each bite. The key to achieving the perfect shortbread lies in the precise measurements and the method of combining the ingredients, ensuring a consistent and delicious result every time.

What’s in the Bowl

To create these delightful bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups (6.75 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips, plus more for topping

Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring that your Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars are both flavorful and satisfying.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk: To cream the butter and sugar.
• Spatula: For folding in the chocolate chips and spreading the batter.
• 9×9-inch baking pan: To bake your cookie bars.
• Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Cooling rack: To cool the bars after baking.

Having everything ready will streamline your baking process and make it even more enjoyable.

How to Prepare Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts

Add the large egg, pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste), and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser bars.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini semisweet chocolate chips using a spatula. Reserve a few chips for topping if desired.

Step 7: Spread the Batter

Pour the prepared batter into the lined baking pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly and smooth out the top. Sprinkle any reserved chocolate chips on top for an extra treat.

Step 8: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.

International Equivalents

If you’re outside the United States, here are the equivalent measurements you might need:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter = 113 grams
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar = 150 grams
• 1 large egg = approximately 50 grams
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract = 5 ml
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract = 1.25 ml
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt = 2.5 grams
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour = 190 grams
• 1/2 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips = 90 grams

This ensures that no matter where you are, you can enjoy these delicious Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars!

Slip-Ups to Skip

When making your Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour. This can lead to tough bars.
• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Use a toothpick to check for doneness, but be aware that a few moist crumbs are okay!
• Don’t skip lining the pan with parchment paper; it makes removing the bars much easier.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying.
• Separate layers of bars with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.
• Reheat bars in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste!

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my cookie bars too crumbly?

If your bars are too crumbly, it may be due to too much flour or not enough butter. Ensure accurate measurements and consider adding a touch more butter for moisture.

How do I prevent the edges from burning?

To prevent burning, check your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If the edges are browning too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil until the center is fully cooked.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even chunks of your favorite chocolate bar. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the balance of flavors.

What if my bars are too soft after baking?

If your bars are too soft, they may need more time in the oven. However, they will firm up as they cool, so be sure to let them rest before cutting into them.

Don’t Miss These

If you love these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars, you’ll enjoy these delightful recipes as well:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• No-Bake Cookie Dough Bars

The Takeaway

These Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of rich, buttery shortbread and sweet chocolate, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a delectable dessert that will impress friends and family alike. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cookie heaven! Whether you enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of ice cream, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!