Chewy Candy Cookie Squares
Chewy Candy Cookie Squares are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, baked into easy-to-slice squares packed with chocolate chips and colorful candy-coated chocolates. These bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with sweetness, making them a favorite for parties, potlucks, or a simple dessert at home. With their vibrant topping and rich flavor, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup): Melted butter creates a rich, moist base and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds sweetness and moisture with hints of caramel.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the flavor with a touch of crisp sweetness.
- Eggs (2 large): Help bind the ingredients and create a soft, chewy texture.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Enhances the flavor and adds warmth to the batter.
Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Provides structure to the cookie bars.
- Baking Soda (1/2 tsp): Ensures a slight rise for a soft texture.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (3/4 cup): Adds bursts of rich, melty chocolate.
- Candy-Coated Chocolates (3/4 cup): Brings color, crunch, and an extra layer of sweetness.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over for easy removal. The parchment paper helps with clean slicing and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined. The mixture should have a creamy consistency with no lumps.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This step ensures the batter is cohesive and the eggs are fully incorporated, creating a glossy, thick base for the cookie bars.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense cookie squares.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and half of the candy-coated chocolates. Reserve the remaining candy-coated chocolates for the topping to ensure a colorful finish.
Step 6: Spread the Dough
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the surface for even baking. Sprinkle the remaining candy-coated chocolates over the top, pressing them lightly into the dough.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper edges. Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife for neat portions.
Tips for Success
Achieving Perfect Texture
- Soft and Chewy: Don’t overbake the bars; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Mixing Technique: Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to tougher bars.
Topping Placement
- Reserve half of the candy-coated chocolates for the topping. This ensures a visually appealing, colorful finish that stays vibrant during baking.
Clean Slicing
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling. For cleaner cuts, warm your knife under hot water, dry it, and slice.
Variations
Nutty Twist
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Dark Chocolate Option
- Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
Festive Bars
- Use seasonal candy-coated chocolates (e.g., red and green for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter) to match the occasion.
Peanut Butter Swirl
- Add dollops of peanut butter to the batter and swirl it gently with a knife before baking for a nutty twist.
Storage
At Room Temperature
- Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration
- For extended freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave before enjoying.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 260 per serving
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 3g
To reduce calories, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of chocolate chips and candy-coated chocolates.
Serving Suggestions
Standalone Treat
These cookie bars are perfect on their own as a snack or dessert.
Cookie Sundae
Serve a warm square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, and whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Pair with Beverages
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of melted butter and brown sugar creates a soft, chewy texture with caramel undertones. The semi-sweet chocolate chips melt into the bars, while the candy-coated chocolates add crunch and a pop of color. These cookie squares are easy to prepare and bake evenly in a single pan, making them a convenient option for busy bakers.
Their versatility allows for endless variations, ensuring you can tailor the recipe to your preferences or the occasion. The result is a delightful dessert that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Final Thoughts
Chewy Candy Cookie Squares are a fantastic addition to your dessert repertoire. They’re easy to make, adaptable for different occasions, and loved by all. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply treating yourself, these bars deliver the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these chewy, colorful delights. One bite, and they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!