Graham Cracker Chocolate Chip Bars

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Graham Cracker Chocolate Chip Bars

These thick, chewy graham cracker bars are simple to make and loaded with sweet chocolatey goodness. With a soft, almost spongy texture thanks to the graham cracker base, they offer a delicious twist on the classic cookie bar. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these bars come together in minutes and bake up beautifully every time.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 14 ounces (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Add the Wet Ingredients
    Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir well using a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is fully incorporated and no dry spots remain. The mixture will be thick and sticky.
  4. Bake the Bars
    Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for a decorative touch.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  5. Cool and Slice
    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and slice into squares or rectangles.

Notes & Variations

  • Crunchy Add-Ins: Stir in ½ cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
  • Flavor Swaps: Try swapping chocolate chips with peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch chips for a fun variation.
  • S’mores Twist: Add ½ cup of dehydrated marshmallows to the mix for a gooey s’mores-inspired treat.
  • Texture Tips:
    • For a more cake-like, chewy and spongy texture, use finely ground graham cracker crumbs.
    • For a denser, gooey bar (similar to traditional cookie bars), use more coarsely crushed crumbs.
  • Pan Size: This recipe can be doubled and baked in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time slightly as needed.
  • Best Pan Shape: A baking pan with squared-off edges helps create cleaner, more uniform slices.

This easy, one-bowl dessert is perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying sweet treat.

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