Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars

If you’re a fan of buttery shortbread combined with the sweetness of chocolate, then these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. With their tender crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these bars make for the perfect snack, dessert, or even a delightful addition to your next gathering. Easy to whip up and irresistibly delicious, they will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars lies in their simple yet effective ingredient list. The unsalted butter provides a rich foundation, while granulated sugar gives just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of both vanilla and almond extracts elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. Using mini semisweet chocolate chips ensures that every piece is dotted with chocolatey goodness, while the kosher salt enhances the overall taste, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Plus, the shortbread base lends itself to a tender texture that is simply irresistible.

What You’ll Gather

• 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

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowl: A medium bowl works best for combining ingredients.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the wet ingredients evenly.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in the flour and chocolate chips.
• Baking pan: An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for these cookie bars.
• Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal of the bars after baking.

The Method for Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift out the bars once they’re baked.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, use a whisk to cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Beat in the large egg, making sure to combine it thoroughly. Then, add the pure vanilla extract and almond extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini semisweet chocolate chips, reserving a few for topping.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pan

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolatey finish.

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 into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang and slice them into squares or rectangles.

Seasonal Spins

• For fall, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor.
• In summer, mix in some toasted coconut along with the chocolate chips for a tropical twist.
• During the holidays, swap mini chocolate chips for festive colored candy melts or holiday-themed sprinkles on top.
• For a nutty variation, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overmixing the dough can lead to tough bars; mix just until combined.
• Not letting the butter come to room temperature can result in a lumpy batter that doesn’t cream properly.
• Using a hot baking pan can cause uneven baking; always start with a preheated oven.
• Forgetting to line the baking pan can make it difficult to remove your bars after baking.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

These Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, using brown sugar will give the bars a chewier texture and a deeper flavor due to the molasses content. However, this will slightly change the final taste and texture.

Can I substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just make sure it’s solid at room temperature for the best results.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can simply omit it or replace it with an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract for a pure vanilla flavor.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

Look for a light golden color on the edges and a slight firmness in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Bring It Home

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sweet snack, these Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie Bars are a delightful choice. With their buttery richness and the perfect balance of sweetness, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The simplicity of the ingredients paired with the ease of preparation makes them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen as these bars come to life. Happy baking!