Why You’ll Love This Dessert

If you love the soft center of a cookie and the buttery richness of a blondie, these Pan Chewies are your dream come true. No mixer needed, no chilling time, and you can have them in the oven before your popcorn’s done popping. They’re also a great way to involve kids in the kitchen!

Ingredients & Their Roles

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds rich flavor and ensures a soft, chewy texture.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the moist, gooey interior thanks to its molasses content.
• 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and gives the chewies structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the bars, offering structure and stability.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly, giving them a soft lift.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Adds a bit of spread and works with the brown sugar to keep the texture soft.
• 1 cup chocolate chips – The star of the show! Melty, gooey chocolate in every bite.

Instructions: Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and glossy.
3. Add dry ingredients: Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips: Mix gently to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
5. Transfer to pan: Pour the thick batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and serve: Let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm for maximum gooeyness!

Pro Tips for Perfect Pan Chewies

• Use parchment paper for easy lift-out and cleaner edges.
• Underbake slightly for ultra-gooey centers. They’ll continue cooking a bit as they cool.
• Add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty crunch.
• Try flavored chips like butterscotch, peanut butter, or white chocolate for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Chocolate Chip Pan Chewies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or hot fudge. They’re also fantastic on their own with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. For gatherings, slice into bite-size squares and serve as part of a dessert platter.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple pantry staples, minimal prep time, and indulgent results make this recipe a go-to for families and dessert lovers alike. The brown sugar and melted butter combo creates that iconic chewy center, while the chocolate chips guarantee a decadent bite in every square. Best of all? It’s practically foolproof.