Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Introduction

When it comes to quick and delicious desserts, these Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a game changer! I stumbled upon this recipe when I was looking for something sweet to make for my grandchildren, who are always up for a treat. The combination of creamy chocolate chips and crunchy Reese’s Pieces caught my eye, and I knew I had to give it a try.

As soon as they came out of the oven, the entire house filled with the warm, inviting scent of baked cookies. I could hardly wait for them to cool before cutting into them. The kids eagerly gathered around, and as they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. The cookie bars were soft and chewy, with the added crunch and flavor from the Reese’s Pieces making them even more special. It was a hit! Not only did they disappear in no time, but they were also incredibly easy to make, which is a huge bonus for any busy parent or grandparent.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 stick melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 small box Reese’s Pieces

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent the cookie bars from sticking.

1. Mix the Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
• Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

1. Spread the Batter:

• Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and press it evenly into the bottom.

1. Add the Candy:

• Sprinkle the Reese’s Pieces on top of the batter, gently pressing them in to ensure they stick.

1. Bake:

• 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.

1. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 squares
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup or peanut butter for an extra treat.
• Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats at parties or gatherings.
• Store in a decorative tin for gifting or sharing with friends and family.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cookie bars soft and chewy.
3. Add More Candy: Feel free to add extra Reese’s Pieces or your favorite candies to the batter for more flavor and crunch.
4. Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for cleaner cuts.
5. Storage: Keep leftover cookie bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Oatmeal Cookie Bars: Substitute 1 cup of the cake mix with 1 cup of oats for a heartier texture.
• Chocolate Cake Mix: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich, double chocolate treat.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter into the batter before baking for a delicious twist.
• Dried Fruit: Add in some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity addition to the bars.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at birthday parties, family gatherings, or potlucks for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Include these bars as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and cookies.
• Use as a fun dessert for movie nights or family game nights.
• Pack in lunch boxes as a sweet surprise for kids or adults.
• Create a dessert buffet at holidays or celebrations featuring these alongside other themed desserts.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookie bars, let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

• Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, lemon, or even funfetti cake mixes.

1. What can I use instead of Reese’s Pieces?

• You can use M&M’s, chopped Snickers, or any other candy you love.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix and adjust the other ingredients as needed.

1. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

• The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

1. What should I do if the batter is too thick?

• If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes! These cookie bars store well, making them perfect for preparing in advance.

1. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

• Use a sharp knife and cut them while they’re still slightly warm for cleaner edges.

1. How can I enhance the flavor?

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for an additional layer of flavor.

1. Can I use homemade brownie mix?

• Yes! Just make sure to follow the instructions for your homemade mix to ensure the right consistency.

1. What can I do with leftover cookie bars?

• Store them for later or crumble them over ice cream for a delicious sundae topping.

Conclusion

Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the chewy goodness of cookie bars. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they’re easy to make and sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a sweet snack, these cookie bars are a fantastic choice. Try them out, and watch as they disappear before your eyes! Indulge in this sweet and simple dessert that will become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite!

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