Cake Mix Cookie Bars

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat that’s both easy to whip up and utterly scrumptious? Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cake Mix Cookie Bars. These delightful bars make the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to bake them over and over again.

Cake Mix Cookie Bars are a game-changer in the world of desserts. They combine the best of both worlds: the rich flavor of cake and the chewy goodness of cookies. Using a simple box of cake mix as your base ingredient, you can create these incredible bars with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Plus, they’re ideal for baking with kids or anyone looking to delve into the world of homemade treats without the intimidation factor.

Ingredients

• 1 box of cake mix (any flavor you love)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or your favorite mix-ins (nuts, fruit, etc.)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until just combined, don’t overmix. This keeps your bars nice and chewy.

Step 3:

Fold in the chocolate chips or whatever mix-ins you have in mind. Feel free to get creative here; walnuts, dried cherries, or even sprinkles are great additions.

Step 4:

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5:

Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool. If you can resist the temptation, allow the bars to set for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these Cake Mix Cookie Bars (1 bar) contains approximately:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary depending on the cake mix flavor you choose and any add-ins.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten things up? You can swap out the butter for applesauce, or use a low-fat cake mix. If you want to reduce the sugar, try using sugar substitutes. These modifications can keep the dessert delicious while making it a bit more guilt-free.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cake Mix Cookie Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Or pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea; it’s the perfect afternoon treat. Leftovers (if there are any) can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days, though I doubt they’ll last that long.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake when making these bars is overmixing the batter. Remember, the secret to chewy bars is in minimal mixing. Also, be cautious about the baking time. If you underbake them slightly, they’ll stay wonderfully gooey, but overbaking will lead to dry bars. Always check them a minute or two early.

Chef’s Notes

• Try different flavors of cake mix for a fun twist. Red velvet, lemon, or funfetti are all great options.
• Don’t hesitate to mix in some peanut butter or Nutella for a richer flavor.
• These bars freeze well, so if you’re in the mood to batch bake, go for it. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use gluten-free cake mix?
  A1: Absolutely; Just make sure to adjust your cooking time as needed, but otherwise, the recipe works great with gluten-free mixes.
• Q2: Is it possible to add frosting to these bars?
  A2: Yes, A simple glaze or cream cheese frosting would be a delightful addition. Just let the bars cool completely before frosting.
• Q3: What can I serve these bars with?
  A3: They pair well with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

If you’re looking for unique and fun treats, don’t forget to check out my Cheesecake Egg Rolls recipe for a delightful twist on your favorite desserts, or dive into the warm goodness of my Caramel Apple Wontons recipe. Both options are bound to impress.

Happy baking, my friend! I can’t wait to hear how your Cake Mix Cookie Bars turn out.

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