Introduction
Indulging in a delicious batch of homemade cookies is always a delightful experience. This article will guide you through the process of making soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies with a nutty twist. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 24 squares
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, if using.
7. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate chip cookies and share the joy with others!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy in texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they are well-mixed and free of lumps.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the bars.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional chopped walnuts into the batter, ensuring an even distribution without overmixing.
Step 7: Spread Dough in Pan
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure to smooth the top for an even baking surface.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The bars are ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baking is complete, allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. After they have cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutes
If desired, you can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on personal preference.
Nut-Free Option
For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts to cater to those with nut allergies.
Storage Instructions
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving these bars warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
Cook techniques
Cremaing Butter and Sugars
Begin by ensuring the butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending. Creaming butter with granulated and brown sugars incorporates air into the mixture, creating a light and airy texture essential for baked goods.
Adding Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This technique helps to emulsify the ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step helps to prevent lumps and ensures even leavening throughout the batter.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars due to gluten development, so it’s important to stop when no dry flour is visible.
Folding in Add-Ins
Use a gentle folding motion when incorporating chocolate chips and walnuts. This method helps to maintain the airiness of the batter while ensuring even distribution of the add-ins.
Spreading the Dough
Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking pan using a spatula. Make sure to reach the corners and smooth the top for consistent baking.
Checking for Doneness
To determine if the bars are done baking, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, the bars are ready to be taken out of the oven.
Cooling the Bars
Allow the baked bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack to prevent moisture from accumulating on the bottom. Once cooled, cut into squares for serving.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the overall salt content in the recipe. You may consider reducing the added salt to balance the flavors.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I store leftover chocolate bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
Can I add different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.
Conclusion
The combination of butter, both granulated and brown sugars, along with eggs and vanilla extract, creates a rich and flavorful base for these chocolate chip walnut bars. The addition of baking powder and baking soda ensures they rise beautifully, while the semi-sweet chocolate chips offer a delectable sweetness that pairs perfectly with the optional walnuts for added texture. These bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Peanut Butter Swirl Bars
Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter on top of the chocolate chip batter before baking for a delicious nutty flavor.
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the mixture for a chewy texture and added heartiness.
Double Chocolate Chip Bars
Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a rich, chocolaty variation that will please chocolate lovers.
Dried Fruit and Nut Bars
Substitute the walnuts with a mix of dried cranberries and pecans for a fruity twist that’s perfect for snacking.
Mint Chocolate Chip Bars
Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract and use mint chocolate chips in place of semi-sweet for a refreshing flavor profile.
Coconut Chocolate Chip Bars
Incorporate 1 cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical touch that complements the chocolate beautifully.
