9 Irresistible Cookie Bar Recipes to Bake in Your 9×13 Pan

Italian Chef Team

1 month ago

9 Irresistible Cookie Bar Recipes to Bake in Your 9×13 Pan

Cookie bars are the ultimate dessert for ease and crowd-pleasing flavor. Ditch the tedious task of scooping and baking individual cookies and embrace the simplicity of baking a batch of delicious bars in a 9×13 inch pan. From classic chocolate chip to decadent brownies swirled with caramel, these 9 recipes offer something for everyone. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make, utterly delicious cookie bar creations!

## Why Cookie Bars are the Best

Before diving into the recipes, let’s quickly recap why cookie bars are superior:

* **Easy:** Minimal effort required. Simply mix, spread, and bake.
* **Quick:** Faster than baking individual cookies.
* **Versatile:** Endless flavor combinations.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Always a hit at parties and gatherings.
* **Portable:** Easy to cut and transport.

## Essential Tips for Perfect Cookie Bars

* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Good quality chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract will elevate your bars to the next level.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined.
* **Line Your Pan:** Line your 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out once they’re cooled.
* **Even Baking:** Ensure even baking by using an oven thermometer and rotating the pan halfway through the baking time.
* **Cool Completely:** Resist the temptation to cut into the bars while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

## 9 Delicious Cookie Bar Recipes

Here are nine irresistible cookie bar recipes to try in your 9×13 inch pan:

### 1. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These are a go-to for a reason! A simple, delicious, and always satisfying treat.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 2. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven! These bars are rich, chewy, and packed with flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 22-27 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 3. Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

A healthy-ish and incredibly delicious bar that’s perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups rolled oats
* 1 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the oats, raisins, and nuts (if using).
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 4. Lemon Cookie Bars

Bright, zesty, and refreshing! These lemon bars are perfect for spring and summer.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Crust:**
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **For the Filling:**
* 4 large eggs
* 2 cups granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
* 2 tablespoons lemon zest

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. **Make the Crust:** In a food processor, pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
5. **Make the Filling:** While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
7. Pour the filling over the warm crust.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

### 5. Brown Butter Toffee Cookie Bars

These bars have a nutty, caramel-like flavor thanks to the brown butter. The toffee adds a delightful crunch.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup toffee bits

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Pour the browned butter into a large bowl. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar and whisk until well combined.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Stir in the toffee bits.
8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
10. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 6. Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Sweet and salty perfection! These bars feature a rich caramel swirl and a sprinkle of sea salt.

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the batter.
9. Sprinkle with sea salt.
10. Bake for 22-27 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
11. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 7. Funfetti Cookie Bars

These colorful bars are perfect for birthdays and celebrations! The sprinkles add a fun and festive touch.

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the sprinkles.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 8. S’mores Cookie Bars

Capture the flavors of a campfire treat in a cookie bar! These bars are loaded with graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows.

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Top with mini marshmallows.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the marshmallows are melted and lightly toasted.
10. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

### 9. White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookie Bars

These elegant bars are perfect for a sophisticated treat. The white chocolate and macadamia nuts create a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in the white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 22-27 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares.

## Tips for Variations and Customization

* **Nuts:** Add different types of nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to any of these recipes.
* **Chocolate:** Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a chewy texture and added flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm and comforting flavor.
* **Frosting:** Top your cookie bars with a simple buttercream frosting or a chocolate ganache for an extra touch of sweetness.

## Storing Your Cookie Bars

* **Room Temperature:** Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

## Conclusion

With these 9 delicious cookie bar recipes, you’ll never have to bake individual cookies again! Easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser, cookie bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. So, grab your 9×13 inch pan and get baking!

Tags: Recipes