Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Cookie bars are one of those desserts that never go out of style, and when you make them with a cake mix, they become even easier and faster to prepare. This recipe for cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars delivers soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet bars that taste like they came straight from a bakery, but they only take a few minutes to put together. With a box of cake mix and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dessert that will quickly become a family favorite.
What makes these bars so special is their versatility. They are the perfect treat for potlucks, bake sales, after school snacks, or even holiday dessert trays. The combination of fluffy cake mix and rich chocolate chips creates a texture that is somewhere between a cookie and a brownie, offering the best of both worlds. If you love homemade sweets but do not always have the time to measure out multiple ingredients, this recipe is the ideal shortcut that does not compromise on flavor or quality.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it proves that baking can be simple, stress free, and incredibly rewarding. By using a cake mix as the base, you cut down on prep time while still ending up with a homemade dessert that tastes amazing. The cookie bars bake evenly, slice neatly, and store well, making them a great choice for gatherings or meal prep. They also save you from the hassle of scooping and baking individual cookies while giving you that same chewy texture and rich chocolate flavour. Once you try them, these cookie bars will become your go to dessert whenever you want something quick and delicious.
Ingredients
Here is a clear list of ingredients with calorie information so you can see exactly what goes into each batch of cookie bars.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box (15 oz) | 1600 |
| Butter melted | 1/2 cup | 400 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Semi sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup | 800 |
This recipe makes about 16 cookie bars, with each bar containing around 185 calories.
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well blended and the dough comes together. Fold in the chocolate chips so that they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Spread the dough into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently to create an even layer. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or rectangles. This step helps them set properly and makes for clean cuts. Serve warm for a soft, gooey texture or at room temperature for a chewier bite.
Pro Tips
If you want extra gooey bars, pull them out of the oven a couple of minutes earlier and let them finish setting as they cool. For a slightly thicker and richer texture, try adding an extra handful of chocolate chips or even mixing in white chocolate, peanut butter chips, or chopped nuts. Always let the bars cool fully before cutting to keep them from crumbling. To keep them fresh for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or freeze them for up to two months.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
These cookie bars pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. If you want to dress them up for a party, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or dust lightly with powdered sugar. They also taste amazing when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple but indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, try topping them with caramel sauce or crushed candies before serving.
Conclusion
Cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars are the perfect dessert when you want something homemade without spending too much time in the kitchen. They are soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate flavor, all while being incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and one baking dish, you can create a treat that everyone will love. Whether you are baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become one of your go to favorites.
