Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars
Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars are the perfect combination of your favorite chocolate chip cookies and the delightful indulgence of a gooey, rich dessert bar. Each bite is packed with the warm, comforting flavors of butter and brown sugar, contrasted by the sweetness of chocolate chips that melt in your mouth. These bars are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a simple treat to enjoy at home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a go-to in your baking repertoire.
Why This Recipe Works
What sets Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars apart is their unique texture and flavor profile. The combination of both soft and chewy elements makes these bars irresistible. The generous amount of brown sugar adds a depth of flavor, while the chocolate chips provide the much-needed sweetness and richness. Additionally, the use of both whole eggs and egg whites gives the bars a perfect lift without making them too dense. When baked, these bars achieve a light outer crust while remaining gooey and fudgy in the center.
Ingredient Notes
- Unsalted butter: Using softened butter creates a creamy base that helps the sugars blend seamlessly, resulting in a tender bar.
- Granulated sugar: This sugar gives the bars a slight crispness on the outside, contrasting with the chewy interior.
- Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar is essential; it not only sweetens but also contributes moisture and richness.
- Eggs: The combination of one large egg and two egg whites provides structure and helps achieve a soft texture.
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, aromatic note.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, ensuring they are light and fluffy.
- All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour gives the bars their structure without making them too cakey.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Chocolate chips: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the bars.
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowls: Use a large mixing bowl for combining wet ingredients and a separate bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in the chocolate chips and ensuring everything is well combined.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: This is the ideal size for baking these bars, allowing them to cook evenly.
- Parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to ensure the bars bake evenly.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will prevent the bars from sticking to the pan.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to cream the mixture until it’s light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the large egg, two egg whites, and the pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser bars.
Step 7: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Smart Substitutions
- Butter: For a dairy-free option, substitute with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative with a similar sweetness.
- Chocolate chips: Swap in dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version of these bars.
- Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Insider Tips
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the bars right after baking.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Handy Q&A
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar, but it will change the texture slightly. The bars will be more moist and chewy. A combination of both sugars is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They taste just as delicious the next day, if not better, as the flavors meld together.
What can I serve with these bars?
These delicious bars can be enjoyed on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Before You Go
Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars are more than just a treat; they’re a nostalgic reminder of homemade goodness that everyone loves. The delightful blend of chocolatey sweetness and chewy texture makes these bars perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family gathering, a potluck with friends, or a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible bars. You won’t regret it!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Mud Hen Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Add the large egg, egg whites, and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 7: Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
- Step 8: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Step 9: Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out and allowing them to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after baking for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
