Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you're looking for a dessert for the fourth of July or this weekend, look no further.  There is something about chocolate chips that seem patriotic-I think of them as the all-American cookie.  This is a very chocolaty bar form of the classic cookie and is perfect for a picnic, barbecue or just a snack.  Even if you weren't planning on baking, you should still go make these bars-they are that good!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

2 ¼ cups flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 (12-ounce bag) semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a 9x13 pan with non-stick spray or butter. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside. 

In a medium bowl or bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment,cream butter and sugars on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in the eggs and vanilla; mix until well combined. Add flour mixture; beat on low speed until just incorporated. Gently stir in the chocolate chips using a wooden spoon. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and spread out evenly with your hands. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes. Cool and slice into squares.

Source: Adapted from So Tasty, So Yummy and Martha Stewart