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Coffee Cookie Bars

Coffee Cookie Bars are an easy dessert blending rich coffee flavors with sweet chocolate, creating a delightful chewy and crispy treat for all occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookie layer
  • 1 cup softened unsalted butter Adds richness and contributes to the bars' chewy texture.
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure to the bars.
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips Adds sweetness and a creamy texture.
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules Enhances the coffee flavor throughout the bars.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the bars rise slightly during baking.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder Optional; intensifies the coffee flavor for coffee lovers.
For the topping
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk Provides a creamy, sweet topping that enhances the overall texture.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness to the condensed milk mixture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Additional flavor for the topping.
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt Sprinkled on top for a touch of contrast and flavor enhancement.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9x13 baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together using a stand mixer or hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix in all-purpose flour, milk chocolate chips, instant coffee granules, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract on medium speed until combined. Add espresso powder if using.
  4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish; it may be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Baking
  1. Bake the cookie layer for 18-20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
  2. While the cookie layer bakes, heat sweetened condensed milk and unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth, about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Once the cookie layer is done, pour the condensed milk mixture evenly over it.
  5. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the top layer is set.
  6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before cutting.

Notes

For deeper coffee flavor, increase the amount of instant coffee granules. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.