Description
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars offer a soft, chewy, and comforting treat made with plant-based butter and natural vanilla extract. Loaded with melty plant-based chocolate chips and a natural gelling agent, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a deliciously tender and flavorful dessert bar that is easy to bake, customizable, and perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup plant-based chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with plant-based butter to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the plant-based butter together with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This will incorporate air and blend the flavors perfectly.
- Add Vanilla and Mix Dry Ingredients: Stir in the natural vanilla extract for a warm flavor lift. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and natural gelling agent until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix gently and just until combined to ensure the bars remain tender and avoid a tough texture.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Carefully fold the plant-based chocolate chips into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout for that classic chocolate burst in every bite.
- Bake to Perfection: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges start to slightly pull away from the pan. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Use room temperature plant-based butter to ensure easy creaming and a smooth batter.
- If time permits, chill the dough slightly before baking for denser bars.
- Press the dough evenly in the pan using a spatula or your hands for uniform baking.
- Remove the bars from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden to keep them soft and chewy.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal and minimal mess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chocolate chip cookie bars, chewy cookie bars, plant-based cookies, vegan cookie bars, easy cookie bars, soft cookie bars, chocolate dessert