Chewy Chocolate Chip Bars
Chewy chocolate chip bars feature a rich, buttery base with gooey chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter, sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar.
- Add water, vanilla, and egg yolks; beat for 2 minutes. Reserve egg whites separately.
- Beat in flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Spread the batter in a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle with chocolate chips.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then add 1/2 cup brown sugar.
- Spread the egg whites over the chocolate chips.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the sugars. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. To enhance the chewiness, try adding an extra egg yolk. Make sure to use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy chocolate chip bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a slice of Oatmeal Fruit Crisp for a delicious dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chewy chocolate chip bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat that tastes freshly baked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Chocolate Chip Bars contains roughly 194 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1156mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used as a substitute, it may alter the texture and flavor of the bars. Butter provides a richer taste and better chewiness. If you must use margarine, choose a high-quality product for the best results.
Can I freeze these chocolate chip bars?
Yes, you can freeze the chewy chocolate chip bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you’re looking for a nut-free version, you can simply omit the walnuts. Alternatively, try adding chocolate chunks or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can also be a great nut alternative.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).