If you have a soft spot for classic chocolate chip cookies but crave something a little easier to slice and share, then this Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the same delicious, buttery cookie dough bursting with melty Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips, baked into a perfect pan of chewy, gooey bars that everyone will want seconds of. This recipe takes all the comforting flavors you love from traditional cookies and transforms them into a simple, crowd-pleasing bar form that’s ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or just an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are staples in most kitchens, but each one is essential to the texture and flavor that make this Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe so irresistible. From softening sugars to rich butter, every element plays a critical role in building that perfect cookie bar.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your bars structure and chew.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bars rise just enough to be soft but not cakey.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture for a tender texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning on top.
- 3/4 cup packed light-brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel undertone and chewiness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Gives depth and warmth to every bite.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- 2 cups Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star ingredient for classic chocolate bursts.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing or lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper is key — letting some overhang means you can lift out the bars easily later without any crumbling frustration.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This blends the leavening and seasoning evenly throughout your dough, making sure every bite is consistent and perfectly flavored.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy — about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is magical because it incorporates air, which helps create that tender yet chewy texture we crave.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition so the mixture stays smooth and emulsified. Stir in the vanilla extract last, allowing its sweet aroma to infuse every part of the dough.
Step 5: Blend Dry Ingredients Into Wet
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Take your time here — mixing just until combined ensures your bars won’t become too dense or tough.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Gently stir in the Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips along with any chopped nuts you like. This is where the cookie bars get that signature chocolatey goodness and delightful texture.
Step 7: Spread Dough in Pan
Evenly press the dough into your prepared baking dish. Make sure the surface is smooth and covers the pan completely to ensure even baking and easy slicing.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the bars for 25 to 30 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs — that means chewy and soft is right around the corner.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let the cookie bars cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift them out of the pan, then slice into squares or rectangles for serving.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delectable treats with a tall glass of milk or pack them up for an on-the-go snack. The familiar flavors in this Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe bring smiles every single time.
How to Serve Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Though these bars shine on their own, sprinkling a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can add a pretty, gourmet touch. For a festive twist, try pressing a few extra chocolate chips or nuts on top right before baking.
Side Dishes
The rich, chocolaty Toll House Cookie Bars pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to cut through the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream alongside them turns it into an indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these bars layered between parchment paper in a decorative tin if gifting, or cut them into bite-sized squares and thread onto skewers for a fun, party-friendly treat. You can also jazz them up by sandwiching a little peanut butter or frosting between two bars for a mini cookie bar sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your Toll House Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft, chewy, and ready for whenever that sweet tooth strikes.
Freezing
Want to save leftovers for longer? Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, microwave individual bars for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. This softens the chocolate and enhances the gooey texture, making your Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe feel freshly made all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the nuts in this Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, you can omit them or try other crunchy options like almonds or even seeds. The nuts add texture but are completely optional.
What if I want to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious! Just be sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free too.
Is there a way to make these cookie bars more chewy?
Yes! Using more brown sugar in place of some granulated sugar helps increase moisture and chewiness. Also, avoid overbaking by watching the bars carefully near the end of the baking time.
Can I double the recipe and bake in a bigger pan?
Definitely. If doubling, use a larger pan like a 9×18-inch and adjust the baking time slightly, starting with 30-35 minutes and checking for doneness regularly.
Why does the recipe call for both granulated and brown sugar?
Granulated sugar helps the bars spread and crisp slightly on top, while brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness. Together, they create the perfect balance of texture and flavor in these Toll House Cookie Bars.
Final Thoughts
This Toll House Cookie Bars Recipe brings the nostalgic joy of chocolate chip cookies in a wonderfully convenient bar form. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these bars promise rich, comforting flavors and a satisfyingly chewy texture that never gets old. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and share the love — you won’t regret it!
