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Fudgy Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe with Chewy Crisp Edges

fudgy mint chocolate chip cookie bars - featured image

These fudgy mint chocolate chip cookie bars feature a perfect balance of chewy and crisp textures with a rich chocolate and fresh mint flavor, ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (165g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (170g) mint chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh peppermint extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
  2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until the batter is glossy and smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Gently fold in 1 cup mint chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon fresh peppermint extract. Taste and adjust peppermint extract if desired, but use sparingly.
  7. Spread the thick, fudgy batter evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula.
  8. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, starting to check at 22 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Edges should be set and slightly crisp.
  9. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 30 minutes.
  10. Slice into bars using a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts for clean edges, and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter after adding dry ingredients to avoid tough bars. Start with 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and adjust to taste to prevent overpowering mint flavor. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. For vegan, use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs instead of eggs, and dairy-free chocolate chips. Baking time may vary slightly depending on oven and pan type; check bars starting at 22 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mint chocolate chip, cookie bars, fudgy cookie bars, chewy edges, chocolate dessert, easy cookie recipe, holiday treats