Description
This chocolate chip cookie bark is a delightful twist on classic cookies, offering a buttery, crisp base loaded with chocolate chips and topped with a smooth layer of melted semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for sharing during holidays or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this easy-to-make treat does not require a mixer and combines salty and sweet flavors for an irresistible snack.
Ingredients
Cookie Bark Base
- 1 and 1/3 cups (167g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
Topping
- 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped (two 4-ounce baking bars)
- Optional: flaky sea salt or sprinkles, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C) and line a light-colored 12×17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside to incorporate flavors.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Mix Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and use a silicone spatula to stir until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips carefully; expect a soft, slightly greasy dough.
- Press Dough: Using your hands, press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, then use an offset spatula to smooth it out covering the entire surface evenly.
- Bake Cookie Base: Bake for 18–20 minutes until the top is a deep golden brown. Monitor closely after 15 minutes especially if using a dark pan which may cook faster.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle the chopped semi-sweet chocolate evenly over the warm cookie, then return to the oven for 1–2 minutes to melt the chocolate.
- Spread Chocolate: Place the pan on a cooling rack, and use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate evenly across the cookie surface.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or colorful sprinkles over the melted chocolate to add flavor and texture if desired.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cookie bark cool at room temperature for 20 minutes, then transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate sets completely.
- Serve: Break or cut the cookie bark into bite-sized pieces and enjoy immediately or store for later.
- Storage: Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 5 days to retain freshness.
Notes
- If using a dark baking sheet, reduce baking time slightly as it absorbs more heat and can brown cookies faster.
- Use a light-colored baking sheet for more even baking and predictable timing.
- To ensure the cookie bark cuts cleanly, fully chill before breaking or slicing.
- This cookie bark is best enjoyed within 4 days as it may start to stale around day 5.
- Optional toppings like flaky sea salt enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile but can be omitted as preferred.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American