Thick, bakery-style square cookie bars in assorted flavors like red velvet, matcha, and classic chocolate chip—each topped with vibrant berries, chopped pistachios, chocolate drizzle, or truffles for a luxurious twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These gourmet cookie bars are a creative and indulgent treat that combines the chewy satisfaction of a cookie with the visual appeal of a bakery dessert. With a base dough that’s easy to customize and endless topping combinations, you can make these bars your own. Perfect for parties, gifting, or simply treating yourself, each bite delivers flavor, texture, and a hint of elegance.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Base Dough (for one flavor):

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Flavor Variations:

Red Velvet: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder + red food coloring
Matcha: Add 2 tsp matcha powder
Classic: Leave dough as-is, optionally add chopped nuts
Chocolate Chip Hazelnut: Top with hazelnut spread and sliced truffles

Toppings (per bar):

Fresh raspberries
Red currants
Chopped pistachios
Nutella or melted chocolate drizzle
Chocolate truffles or bonbons

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Cream butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
Fold in chocolate chips. Divide the dough to customize each portion with your desired flavor variation.
Press dough into square molds or shape into squares on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are just set.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before decorating.
Drizzle melted chocolate or hazelnut spread, then top with berries, nuts, or truffles as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 9 square bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Double chocolate: Add cocoa powder and white chocolate chips for a rich twist.
Salted caramel: Swirl in caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Coconut almond: Mix shredded coconut and slivered almonds into the dough.
Mocha: Add instant coffee and dark chocolate for a sophisticated flavor.
Fruit-filled: Fold in dried cranberries or cherries and finish with a cream cheese glaze.

storage/reheating

Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use this recipe to make a large cookie bar tray?

Yes, simply double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time to 18–22 minutes.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking.

What kind of chocolate chips should I use?

Semi-sweet, milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips all work well, depending on your preference.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend designed for cookies.

Why are my cookie bars dry?

Overbaking is the most common reason. Remove the bars when the centers are just set for a chewy texture.

Can I freeze the cookie bars?

Absolutely. Wrap individually and store in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months.

How do I get clean cuts on the bars?

Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean edges.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling is not required but can help enhance flavor and prevent spreading if you’re baking shaped squares.

How do I decorate these for special occasions?

Use themed toppings like colored sprinkles, edible gold leaf, or seasonal fruits to match holidays or events.

Conclusion

Gourmet Square Cookie Bars offer a playful yet refined twist on classic cookies, perfect for any occasion. With endless ways to customize flavors and toppings, you can create beautiful and delicious bars that are as unique as they are tasty. Whether you’re making them for a party or enjoying with coffee, these bars deliver bakery-style indulgence right at home.