Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while still being on the healthier side, look no further than these Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. These bars encapsulate all the comforting flavors of classic chocolate chip cookies but offer a nutritious twist. With a blend of wholesome ingredients and a touch of indulgence, they strike the perfect balance between health and taste.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie bar that is not only delicious but also provides nutritional benefits. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself!
Why Cooks Rave About It
There’s something magical about cookie bars that brings out the inner baker in everyone. Here are a few reasons why these Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a hit among home cooks:
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- Quick Preparation: Unlike traditional cookies that require chilling and rolling, these bars come together in one bowl and bake in a single pan.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Healthier Indulgence: Packed with whole grains and healthy fats, these bars offer a guilt-free treat that satisfies cravings.
What’s in the Bowl
Gather the following ingredients to create your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup coconut sugar or granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon maca powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To blend the batter smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan works perfectly for cookie bars.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but helps with easy removal and cleanup.
Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Made Stepwise
Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps to create your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and your choice of sugar (coconut or granulated). Using a whisk or electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the Almond Butter and Eggs
Mix in the almond butter until well incorporated. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until everything is fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and maca powder (if using). Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Better-for-You Options
Want to customize your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars? Consider these alternatives:
- Swap almond butter for peanut butter or sunbutter for nut allergies.
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Try using oat flour in place of whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add nuts, dried fruit, or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Learn from These Mistakes
Even the best bakers make mistakes! Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid when making your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- Overmixing the batter can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined.
- Not measuring your flour correctly can affect the texture. Use the spoon and level method for accuracy.
- Using expired baking soda can prevent proper rising. Check the freshness before starting.
- Cutting the bars too soon can lead to crumbly pieces. Let them cool completely for the best texture.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To keep your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months.
- To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute white whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour or even gluten-free flour blends. Just note that it may change the texture slightly.
What if I don’t have almond butter?
You can use any nut or seed butter you prefer, such as peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter, to keep it nut-free.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes! You can reduce the sugar by up to half a cup without significantly affecting the texture. The bars will just be less sweet.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The tops should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Cook This Next
If you love these Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, try these delicious recipes next:
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Healthy Banana Bread
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bring It to the Table
These Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they’re a conversation starter at any gathering. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet yet wholesome snack. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures will please any crowd, making them a staple in your baking repertoire.
So, get ready to indulge without the guilt! These bars are a celebration of health and happiness, and they’ll leave you wanting more. Enjoy every bite of your Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, and happy baking!
Healthyish Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and coconut or granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add almond butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and maca powder (if using). Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Notes
- For nut allergies, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Use maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature.
