Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the bars tough.
7. Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. You can use a spatula or your hands to press it down.
9. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
10. Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes.
11. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into your desired size and shape.
