If you’re craving a sweet treat but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, these Easy Cookie Bars are your perfect solution. With just a handful of ingredients, including a package of yellow cake mix, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookie bars that are sure to please everyone. They are chewy, rich, and incredibly simple to make, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight treats.
Why Easy Cookie Bars is Worth Your Time
These Easy Cookie Bars are not only quick and effortless to prepare, but they also pack a flavor punch that rivals more complicated desserts. The combination of yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding creates a moist and chewy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they are customizable! You can easily swap out chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or add in your favorite nuts or candies.
What Goes In
To make these delectable Easy Cookie Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of yellow cake mix
- 1 small box of vanilla instant pudding
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips (vanilla or peanut butter chips work great too!)
These simple ingredients come together to create a delectable dessert with minimal effort.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:
- Baking pan (9×13 inches recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Having these tools ready will streamline your baking experience and ensure your Easy Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time.
The Method for Easy Cookie Bars
Creating these Easy Cookie Bars is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix. Add the water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined. You can use a whisk or an electric mixer for this step.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips (or your choice of chips) using a spatula. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Bake
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 and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
These Easy Cookie Bars are perfect for sharing, but don’t be surprised if you end up keeping them all to yourself!
Adaptations for Special Diets
If you’re looking to modify this recipe to fit different dietary needs, here are some ideas:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips and use a vegetable oil that is free from dairy.
- Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and ensure that the cake mix and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
These adaptations ensure that everyone can enjoy these scrumptious Easy Cookie Bars!
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
These Easy Cookie Bars are a fantastic base for creativity. You can mix in nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor. The texture is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different add-ins.
- For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination.
- These bars also work well with a variety of cake mixes, so don’t hesitate to switch it up!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you find yourself with leftover Easy Cookie Bars, you’re in luck! These bars freeze beautifully. Simply cut the cooled bars into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Common Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix creates a classic flavor, you can experiment with chocolate, red velvet, or any other flavor you love.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
What’s the best way to store the cookie bars?
Store the cooled cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Yes! These Easy Cookie Bars can be made a day in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
If you enjoy these Easy Cookie Bars, you’ll love exploring more recipes! Check out these delightful treats:
Ready to Cook?
With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you’re all set to create your very own Easy Cookie Bars. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat after dinner or surprising friends with a homemade dessert, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. So grab your mixing bowl and baking pan, and let’s get baking!
Easy Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix. Add the water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips (or your choice of chips) using a spatula. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- 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 and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination.
- These bars also work well with a variety of cake mixes, so don’t hesitate to switch it up!
- Freeze leftovers by wrapping individually and storing in an airtight container for up to three months.
