Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars

When it comes to dessert, few things can rival the bliss of a freshly baked cookie. Now, imagine that same bliss, but in bar form, and with a gooey surprise that will leave your taste buds dancing. Enter the Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, a decadent treat that combines layers of cookie goodness and a rich, melty filling. These bars are the perfect addition to any gathering or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars truly special is the combination of textures and flavors. You get a chewy cookie base that holds a sweet and creamy filling of sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter cups. Topped with a sprinkle of chocolate chips and M&Ms, every bite is a delightful surprise. They are easy to prepare, bake quickly, and are perfect for sharing—if you can bear to part with them!

Shopping List

To make these scrumptious Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 2/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups (186g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (255g) chocolate chips
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 24 regular size peanut butter cups
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups (93g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (150g) packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (138g) quick cooking oats
• 1 cup (160g) M&Ms

Equipment at a Glance

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Whisk – to ensure a smooth batter
• 9×13 inch baking pan – for baking the bars
• Spatula – for spreading the batter evenly
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of the bars

Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars: From Prep to Plate

Ready to create your own batch of Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will also help prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Cookie Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

To the wet mixture, add the baking soda, salt, and flour. Mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; over-mixing can lead to tough cookie bars.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, creating a deliciously chunky cookie dough.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This will be your gooey filling.

Step 7: Layer the Cookie Dough

Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Then, layer the peanut butter cups on top of the dough, followed by pouring the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the candy.

Step 8: Add the Second Layer

Take the remaining cookie dough and dollop it over the filling. It doesn’t need to cover completely; some of the filling can peek through.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. The bars will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift them out. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

These Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars are versatile, and you can easily switch up the fillings or toppings to match the seasons. Consider these flavor ideas:

• Add crushed peppermint for a festive touch during the holidays.
• Substituting the peanut butter cups with caramel-filled candies for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Incorporate seasonal fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
• Try using butterscotch chips instead of chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Pro Perspective

If you want to elevate your Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, here are a few tips from the pros:

• Let your butter cool slightly before mixing it with the sugars to prevent the egg from cooking.
• For an extra chewy texture, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper! It makes for easy lifting and cutting of the bars.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Once you’ve made your Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here are some storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cut bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Thaw frozen bars in the fridge overnight before enjoying again.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I substitute the peanut butter cups?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap them for other candies like Snickers, Milky Way, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep the overall quantity the same.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed. Just be sure to check that the blend contains a binding agent.

How can I make these bars dairy-free?

To make dairy-free Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips. Ensure your sweetened condensed milk is also dairy-free or opt for a homemade version using coconut milk.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor. About 1 cup should do the trick without overwhelming the other ingredients.

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Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for these Gooey Stuffed Cookie Bars, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious dessert. Whether for a party, a potluck, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are bound to impress. Happy baking!