Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If there’s one dessert that truly captures the spirit of indulgence and nostalgia, it’s the classic mint chocolate chip cookie. Now, imagine taking that beloved flavor and transforming it into decadent cookie bars. These Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with the refreshing taste of mint combined with rich chocolate. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars provide an irresistible twist on a classic treat. They are incredibly easy to make, require minimal cleanup, and deliver maximum flavor. With a delightful balance of mint and chocolate, every bite is an explosion of taste. Plus, they are perfect for sharing, making them a fantastic option for potlucks or dessert tables. Trust me; once you try these cookie bars, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds)!

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3.5 oz package vanilla pudding mix
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups Nestlé Toll House DelightFulls Dark Chocolate Morsels with Mint Filling

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugars together easily.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To fold in the chocolate morsels and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Baking Pan: An 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for these cookie bars.
• Parchment Paper: To line the pan for easy removal of the bars.

Stepwise Method: Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the pan will ensure that your cookie bars come out easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the large egg and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, vanilla pudding mix, baking soda, and salt.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Morsels

Gently fold in the Nestlé Toll House DelightFulls Dark Chocolate Morsels with Mint Filling, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 8: Spread the Dough into the Pan

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out onto a cutting board. Let them cool completely before cutting into squares.

Healthier Substitutions

• Butter: Substitute with coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• All-Purpose Flour: Consider using whole wheat flour or almond flour for added nutrients.
• Chocolate Morsels: Opt for dark chocolate chips or sugar-free chocolate morsels if desired.

Chef’s Rationale

These Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are not just a delightful treat; they are also incredibly versatile. The vanilla pudding mix adds an extra layer of moisture and chewiness, making these bars stand out from standard cookie recipes. The balance of mint and chocolate is a classic combination that never goes out of style. By preparing them in bar form, you eliminate the hassle of portioning out individual cookies, making them perfect for gatherings. Every bite is a celebration of flavor, and they are sure to impress your friends and family!

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you want to prepare your Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars ahead of time, simply make the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just let the dough come to room temperature before spreading it in the pan and baking as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the bars and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Helpful Q&A

Can I add nuts to these cookie bars?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch and complement the mint and chocolate flavors perfectly.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookie bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I use different flavored chocolate morsels?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips, depending on your taste preference.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

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Before You Go

If you’re a fan of mint and chocolate, these Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a must-try. They’re simple to make, taste fantastic, and are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting embrace of these delightful cookie bars. Happy baking!