Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars

If you’re looking for a deliciously sweet and salty treat that will satisfy your cravings, look no further than these Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie bar loaded with rich chocolate chips and crunchy pretzel pieces, all harmoniously combined into a dessert that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating yourself, or just looking to bake something delightful, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of these Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars lies in the perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors. The light brown sugar brings a deep caramel note, while the granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of pretzels introduces a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie base. Moreover, the bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips melt perfectly, creating gooey pockets of chocolate goodness. These bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredient Notes

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g) provide the structure for your cookie bars.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon helps the bars rise and achieve a soft texture.
• Salt: 0.5 teaspoon balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: 1.5 sticks, softened, contribute to a rich texture.
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup (220g) adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: 0.5 cup (100g) sweetens the bars perfectly.
• Large Eggs: 2 provide moisture and act as a binding agent.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons lend a warm, comforting flavor.
• Bittersweet or Semisweet Chocolate Chips: 12 ounces (340.2g) create delicious chocolate pockets.
• Mini Pretzel Twists: 1.5 cups (63.75g), coarsely chopped, for that perfect crunch.
• Chocolate Chips for Drizzling: 0.5 cup (45g) adds a decorative touch (optional).
• Peanut Butter for Drizzling: 0.25 cup (64.5g) enhances the flavor profile (optional).
• Crumble Pretzels for Topping: 0.25 cup (20g) adds extra texture (optional).

Essential Tools for Success

• Mixing Bowls: To combine your ingredients seamlessly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To fold in those chocolate chips and pretzels.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: The perfect size for baking your cookie bars.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure even baking.

Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the cookie bars out once they’re baked.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1.5 sticks of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and 0.5 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookie bars tender.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pretzels

Gently fold in the 12 ounces of chocolate chips and 1.5 cups of coarsely chopped mini pretzels into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Spread the Batter in the Pan

Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 9: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 10: Cool and Drizzle (Optional)

Once baked, allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan. If desired, melt the additional 0.5 cup of chocolate chips and 0.25 cup of peanut butter together and drizzle over the cooled bars. Top with crumbled pretzels for an extra crunch.

Make It Year-Round

• Seasonal Additions: Try adding seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint extract during the holidays.
• Swap the Pretzels: Experiment with different snacks like crushed potato chips or graham crackers for a unique twist.
• Custom Chocolate: Use your favorite type of chocolate, whether it’s milk, dark, or even white chocolate.
• Nut Variations: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of flavor.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the butter to soften properly for a creamy texture.
• Avoid overmixing the dough: This can lead to dense cookie bars instead of light and chewy ones.
• Don’t rush the cooling process: Cutting into the bars too soon can lead to a crumbly mess.
• Never skip the salt: It enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have any leftover Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully! Cut them into squares and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes! You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

They are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are okay!

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to add dried fruits, coconut flakes, or any other candy you love to customize your cookie bars.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Healthy Cookie Dough Bites
• Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Takeaway

These Chocolate Chip & Pretzel Cookie Bars are the ultimate combination of sweet and salty, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With their chewy texture, rich chocolate, and crunchy pretzels, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, these cookie bars are a guaranteed hit. Gather your ingredients and start baking; you won’t regret it!