Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to express your love, and what better way to do that than with a batch of delightful cookie bars? This Easy Valentine Cookie Bars recipe is not only simple to whip up, but it also delivers a rich and creamy treat loaded with chocolate chips and festive sprinkles. Each bite is a sweet reminder of just how special this day can be, whether you’re sharing them with your loved ones or indulging yourself. Let’s get ready to bake some love!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup sprinkles
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal later on.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the fragrant vanilla extract, which will add depth to your cookie bars.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookie bars to be soft and tender.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and vibrant sprinkles, ensuring they are spread evenly throughout the dough.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for a lovely finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and get ready to share the love!
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, feel free to customize your sprinkles based on the season or occasion! You can also substitute half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate for a creamy contrast. And remember, these cookie bars become even more delectable the next day (if they last that long!). Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugars, make sure your butter is truly softened to room temperature; this is key for achieving that light, fluffy texture. Additionally, using parchment paper in your baking pan can make it even easier to lift the cookie bars out once they are baked.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookie bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Keep an eye on the edges; they will start to look golden brown while the center may still appear slightly soft. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Conclusion
These Easy Valentine Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also a perfect way to spread a little love. Whether you’re planning a get-together or just want to treat yourself, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin! Happy Valentine’s Day!