Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in Liquids: Add the milk and vanilla extract to the mixture, blending until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sprinkle in the flour and salt, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Line the Pan: Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Press the cookie dough evenly into the pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Chill: Place your dish into the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until the dough is firm to the touch.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Pour and Spread: Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled cookie dough, spreading it evenly across the top.
Decorate: Sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top for an added touch of deliciousness.
Set Again: Place the dish back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate has set.
Slice and Serve: Once firm, remove from the dish, cut into bars, and get ready to enjoy your tasty treat!
What to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars With:
These bars are perfect on their own, but why not elevate your dessert experience? Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. You can also serve with a fresh fruit salad on the side to balance out the sweetness. For drinks, an ice-cold glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee would complement the flavors splendidly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars:
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the chocolate chips with your favorite mix-ins like peanut butter chips, M&M's, or even nuts for an added crunch.
Timing Adjustments: Keep a close eye on the chilling times; if you don’t let the dough set, it might be too soft to cut into neat bars.
Avoid Common Mistakes: Make sure your butter is softened and not melted—this step is crucial for achieving the right texture!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
If you find yourself with leftovers (though that might be a stretch!), you can easily store these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate; they should stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm and gooey again.
So there you have it—everything you need to know to make delectable Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat. Happy baking!