Baking doesn’t always have to be a time-consuming endeavor. Sometimes, the best treats come from simple shortcuts that still deliver on taste and texture. One such shortcut is transforming a basic cake mix into delicious chocolate chip cookie bars. These bars are soft, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients Needed
Creating these cookie bars requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 box of yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional: a pinch of salt to enhance flavor
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | 1600 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | 810 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup | 800 |
| Salt (optional) | Pinch | 0 |
Total (for whole batch): ~3362 calories
Per bar (based on 16 servings): ~210 calories
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Gradually incorporate the cake mix into the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. The consistency should be similar to traditional cookie dough.
Gently mix the chocolate chips into the dough, ensuring an even distribution throughout.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down slightly to ensure uniform thickness.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
While this basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can personalize it to suit your taste preferences:
Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Experiment with white chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips for a unique twist.
Add M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or other favorite candies to make the bars more festive and colorful.
For a seasonal variation, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough.
Drop spoonfuls of caramel or peanut butter into the dough and swirl with a knife before baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Based on 16 bars per batch.
Calories: ~210
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
Classic. Serve them warm with a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
À la mode. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Portable. Pack them in lunchboxes or take them on picnics for a sweet snack on the go.
Festive. Decorate with sprinkles or colored sugars to match holidays or special occasions.
Conclusion
Turning a simple cake mix into chocolate chip cookie bars is a clever and convenient way to enjoy a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookie bars are a delightful choice. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, reach for that cake mix and get baking!