Blondie Cookie Bars for a Large Group

Ingredients

• cooking spray
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (12 ounce) bag chocolate chips
• 2 sticks butter at room temperature
• 3 cups light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Step 1

Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease two 9x13-inch pans with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, toss the chocolate chips with a tablespoon of flour to keep them from sinking.

Step 2

Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Slowly add the flour mixture, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 3

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, spreading it out thinly with the back of a metal spoon. Don’t worry if it looks thin—the bars will puff up as they bake. Pop the pans into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides.

Step 4

Once baked, let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes for easier slicing. Enjoy!