Let me tell you, these cake mix cookie bars are a total game changer! They’re so easy to whip up, and honestly, there’s something magical about how just a few simple ingredients can transform into a delicious treat that’s sure to impress. I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. I was a bit skeptical about using cake mix, but once I took that first bite, I was hooked! Everyone raved about them, and they disappeared faster than I could grab a second piece. The best part? You can customize them with any flavor cake mix you have on hand—chocolate, vanilla, or even funfetti! Seriously, the possibilities are endless. They’re perfect for parties, quick snacks, or just because you feel like indulging. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll find every excuse to bake another batch!
Ingredients List
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup nuts (optional)
How to Prepare Cake Mix Cookie Bars
Getting these cake mix cookie bars ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be enjoying them in no time! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be the star of any gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready to go in!
- Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until everything is well combined—don’t worry if it looks a bit thick; that’s just how it should be!
- Now, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Stir in the chocolate chips and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the nuts. This is where you can really make these bars your own!
- Next, grease a baking pan (I usually use a 9×13 inch one) with a bit of cooking spray or butter. This helps the bars come out easily once they’re baked.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking pan, making sure to push it into the corners. This is crucial for even baking!
- Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. But don’t overbake—no one likes a dry cookie bar!
- Once they’re perfectly baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, be patient and let them cool completely before cutting them into bars. I know, it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these estimates are just that—estimates! But here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
So, there you have it! These cookie bars are a delightful treat that you can enjoy without too much guilt, especially when you know how easy they are to make! Just remember, everything in moderation, right?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish!
- Super easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Delicious flavor combinations! Whether you go for classic chocolate, fruity options, or something unique, there’s a cake mix for everyone.
- Perfect for any occasion—these bars are a hit at parties, potlucks, or just as a sweet snack at home.
- They’re incredibly versatile; you can mix in all sorts of goodies like nuts, sprinkles, or even swirls of peanut butter or caramel.
- They stay soft and chewy for days, making them a great make-ahead treat.
- Kids and adults alike will love them; they’re a great way to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cake mix cookie bars turn out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my top tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the cake mix, oil, and eggs, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, and we don’t want that! A few lumps are totally fine.
- Check Your Oven: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your bars towards the end of baking. I usually check them around the 20-minute mark. If the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they’re good to go!
- Cooling Is Key: I know it’s hard to resist cutting into those warm bars, but letting them cool completely in the pan ensures they hold their shape and texture. Trust me, you’ll be glad you waited!
- Storage: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge. I like to layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try swapping in different mix-ins like dried fruit, coconut flakes, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty twist. The options are endless!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be whipping up the most delicious cake mix cookie bars that everyone will love! Happy baking!
Variations
Now, let’s talk about how to make these cake mix cookie bars even more fun and exciting! The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch things up to match your mood or what you have in your pantry. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Different Cake Mix Flavors: The world is your oyster when it comes to cake mix! Try red velvet for a festive touch, lemon for a zesty treat, or even spice cake for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor. Each mix brings its own unique twist!
- Mix-ins Galore: Get creative with mix-ins! How about adding peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, or even toffee bits? You could mix in some crushed Oreos or graham crackers for a fun texture. The sky’s the limit!
- Fruit & Nut Combo: For a more wholesome option, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apples along with nuts. This gives a nice chewiness and a burst of flavor that’s simply delightful.
- Chewy vs. Crispy: If you prefer chewy bars, stick to the shorter baking time of 20 minutes. For a crispier edge, let them bake a bit longer—just keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
- Frosted Bars: Feeling indulgent? Frost the cooled bars with a simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra sweet touch. Yum!
- Layered Treats: For a more decadent dessert, try layering the dough with a layer of chocolate ganache or cookie dough in between. It adds an extra surprise that will wow anyone who tries them!
These variations give you the freedom to play around and make these cookie bars your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment. You might just stumble upon your new favorite flavor combination!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these delicious cake mix cookie bars ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your dessert experience! There’s nothing quite like enjoying these bars with the perfect companion. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Ice Cream: Seriously, is there anything better than warm cookie bars paired with a scoop of your favorite ice cream? Vanilla, chocolate, or even a swirl of cookie dough ice cream takes it to a whole new level!
- Milk: A classic choice! There’s something so comforting about a cold glass of milk alongside a sweet treat. It’s like a match made in heaven, perfect for dunking or just enjoying together.
- Coffee: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more sophisticated, a nice cup of coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully. The rich flavors balance out the sweetness, making for a delightful pairing.
- Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of your cookie bars. It adds a light and airy contrast to the dense, chewy texture of the bars.
- Fresh Fruit: Sliced strawberries, raspberries, or a mix of seasonal berries add a refreshing burst of flavor. They brighten up the dessert and add a touch of freshness that’s simply delightful!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Want to make them extra special? Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top before serving. It adds a lovely presentation and an extra layer of chocolatey goodness!
These serving suggestions can really enhance your cake mix cookie bar experience, making them even more enjoyable. So grab your favorite pairing, share them with friends or family, and watch these bars disappear in no time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these delicious cake mix cookie bars and now you’re left with some extras (if they last that long!). Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible:
- Storing Leftovers: Once your cookie bars have completely cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. This keeps them moist and prevents them from drying out. I like to layer parchment paper between the bars to avoid any sticky situations!
- Room Temperature: If you’re planning to eat them within a week, they can be stored at room temperature. Just make sure they’re in a cool, dry place to maintain their deliciousness.
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can pop them in the fridge. They’ll last for about two weeks in there. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze these cookie bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
If you prefer them warm, you can reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just enough to take the chill off and get that gooey chocolate chip experience back! Enjoy every last bite, because trust me, these bars are just as good the next day (or the day after that!).
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Cake Mix Cookie Bars: 7 Easy Steps to Sweet Success!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy to make cake mix cookie bars.
Ingredients
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix cake mix, oil, and eggs until combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Try different cake mix flavors for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cake mix cookie bars
