Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Gooey, Golden, and Ridiculously Easy

Sometimes you just need a dessert that’s fast, foolproof, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enter these Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars—a one-bowl wonder made with just four ingredients and zero stress. They’re soft, chewy, and loaded with melty chocolate chips, all baked into golden perfection with the help of a yellow cake mix.

Whether you’re baking for a last-minute get-together, a weeknight treat, or just because you need something sweet and simple, these bars are your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

  • Only 4 ingredients – No measuring flour, sugar, or baking soda.
  • One bowl, no mixer – Minimal cleanup and maximum reward.
  • Ready in 30 minutes – From mixing bowl to mouth in no time.
  • Customizable – Add nuts, candies, or drizzle with caramel.
  • Perfect for sharing – Great for potlucks, parties, or lunchbox treats.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 20 bars.

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • ¼ cup peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Measuring cups (for optional add-ins)
  • Rubber spatula
  • Oven mitts
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, melt 1 stick of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Let it cool slightly, then whisk in:

  • 2 eggs

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Stir in:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix

Mix until a thick dough forms. It will be dense—use a spatula or your hands if needed.

Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Add:

  • 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips

Stir until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Tip: Reserve a handful to sprinkle on top for a bakery-style finish.

Step 5: Press and Bake

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

If using a smaller pan (like 8×8 or 9×9), bake for 25–28 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Bake Time: 20–28 minutes
  • Total Time: ~30–40 minutes
  • Yield: 20 bars
  • Calories: ~210 kcal per bar (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overbake – The bars will continue to set as they cool.
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner cuts.
  • Customize the mix-ins – Try M&Ms, toffee bits, or chopped candy bars.
  • Double the batch – These freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.
  • Serve with ice cream – For the ultimate lazy dessert.

Variations to Try

  • Funfetti Bars: Use a white cake mix and add rainbow sprinkles.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top before baking and swirl with a knife.
  • S’mores Bars: Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers.
  • Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with sea salt.
  • Holiday Twist: Use red and green M&Ms or peppermint chips for a festive version.

Perfect For…

  • Bake sales
  • Movie nights
  • After-school snacks
  • Office treats
  • Lazy Sunday baking

Final Thoughts

These Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something amazing. With just a few pantry staples and a little bit of love, you can whip up a batch of gooey, golden bars that everyone will devour. Keep this recipe in your back pocket—you’ll be reaching for it again and again.

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