Are you looking for a dessert that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the classic crunch of chocolate chip cookies? Look no further than cream cheese chocolate chip cookie bars! These delightful treats are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.
The process of making cream cheese chocolate chip cookie bars is straightforward and easy, requiring minimal ingredients and minimal effort. The creamy cream cheese pairs perfectly with the chewy texture of the cookie dough, while the chocolate chips add a delightful crunch and richness. These bars can be enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner, a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a delightful breakfast item.
One of the best things about cream cheese chocolate chip cookie bars is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences by adding different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Additionally, you can experiment with various flavors of cream cheese, such as strawberry or orange, to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Here’s a simple recipe for you to try at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and press it evenly across the bottom.
7. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie dough layer.
9. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer.
10. Drop the remaining cookie dough over the chocolate chips, covering them completely.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
12. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Cut into squares and serve.
Enjoy your homemade cream cheese chocolate chip cookie bars with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage. They’re sure to impress your friends and family, and you’ll be the envy of the dessert table!