Toll House Cookie Bars
Rich, chewy chocolate chip cookie bars with walnuts, featuring a buttery vanilla flavor and crispy edges, perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Beat in eggs until creamy.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Stir in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
- Lightly grease and flour a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Spoon batter into the prepared pan.
- Spread evenly across the pan's surface.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then score before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the bars, checking for a golden edge while the center remains soft. If you need a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with an equal amount of oats. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or milk chocolate, to customize the flavor to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful treat any time of day. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet addition to a picnic or a lunchbox, making them a versatile option for gatherings and everyday snacking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Toll House Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Toll House Cookie Bars contains roughly 299 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 21g fat.
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?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. However, the flavor and texture might differ slightly, as butter provides a richer taste and a better crumb structure. Make sure to use a stick margarine for best results, as tub varieties may contain more water.
What can I use if I don't have walnuts?
If you don't have walnuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld. Just remember to bring the dough to room temperature before spreading it in the pan and baking.
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).