Cake Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful treat that perfectly blends the tender crumb of cake with the chewy texture of cookies, Cake Cookie Bars are here to wow your taste buds. These bars combine the best of both worlds into one irresistible dessert that’s easy to whip up and endlessly customizable. Whether you choose a classic vanilla cake mix or a rich chocolate one, these bars are sure to become a fast favorite at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these luscious Cake Cookie Bars, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the cake mix for a soft base to the melted butter that adds richness and chewiness, every item is essential and easy to find.

• 15.25 oz cake mix (pick any flavor!): The foundation of the bars that brings incredible cake flavor and a soft, tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs: These bind everything together while adding moisture and structure.
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (melted): Adds a delightful richness and helps achieve that chewy, buttery texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a warm, inviting aroma.
• 1 ½ cups add-ins: Your chance to get creative—chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or even sprinkles work beautifully.

How to Make Cake Cookie Bars

Step 1: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl until smooth and well combined. This step ensures your batter has that luscious, even texture essential for perfect Cake Cookie Bars.

Step 2: Combine with Cake Mix

Next, gradually add the cake mix to your wet ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky—this thickness promises those chewy, dense bars we love so much.

Step 3: Fold in Your Add-Ins

Now for the fun part! Incorporate your 1 ½ cups of add-ins evenly throughout the batter. Whether chocolate chips, nuts, or colorful sprinkles, these little bursts of texture and flavor will elevate your Cake Cookie Bars to the next level.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease or line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your bars. Even spreading the batter here is key for uniform baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. This ensures a tender, moist interior with a slightly crisp edge.

How to Serve Cake Cookie Bars

Garnishes

These bars taste fantastic on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can brighten up each bite, making them irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cake Cookie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a rich, creamy coffee for a perfectly indulgent dessert experience. They also go surprisingly well with a simple glass of cold milk, bringing back childhood memories with every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut Cake Cookie Bars into squares or rectangles, then stack them on a pretty platter for parties or family gatherings. You can even sandwich two bars with frosting in the middle to create a portable dessert that’s fun and mess-free.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cake Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them chewy and moist, making it easy to grab a quick sweet treat whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly on the counter or in the fridge.

Reheating

For a warm, freshly baked experience, pop your leftover bars in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them briefly in an oven set to 300°F (150°C). This brings back that just-baked softness and refreshes their incredible flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! A homemade cake mix or scratch recipe works well, just make sure it’s in a similar dry mix form to replicate the texture and ease of these Cake Cookie Bars.

What are some good add-in ideas for Cake Cookie Bars?

Chocolate chips, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, or even mini marshmallows all add wonderful flavors and textures to these bars.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for golden edges and a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The bars should feel set but still soft to the touch.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix and double-check that your add-ins are gluten-free to enjoy a safe and delicious version.

Can I substitute the butter for oil?

While melted butter provides the best flavor and texture, you can use an equal amount of vegetable oil if needed, but the bars may be a bit less rich and chewy.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting and joyful about biting into a bar that marries cake and cookie in one perfect package. Cake Cookie Bars are a simple yet spectacular dessert to keep in your baking arsenal whenever you want to impress or indulge. I can’t wait for you to try making them at home and fall in love with their chewy, flavorful charm just like I did!

Print