Congo bars are delicious cookie bars filled with chocolate chips. They are soft, chewy and a staple dessert in our family.

 

Why this recipe works

This congo bar recipe is one that was passed down to me from my grandmother. They are similar to a chocolate chip cookie in bar form. Along with being so delicious, these dessert bars are easy to make and great for a crowd.

What are congo bars?

I like to call these bars chocolate chip cookie bars but they are actually a version of a blondie bar. Congo bars are popular in the Southeast and are similar to a brownie without the cocoa powder.

Congo squares ingredients

• Flour – All-purpose flour is used.
• Unsalted butter – Slightly softened butter is needed.
• Brown sugar – Light brown sugar works the best for these bars.
• Baking powder
• Eggs – 3 eggs are used.
• Salt – This helps to balance the sweetness.
• Chocolate chips – Semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can substitute with white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips.

How to make Congo Squares

Step one: Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13 brownie pan with non-stick cooking spray. Tip – Line the pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to help make it easier to cut the bars.

Step two: Make the batter by creaming together the brown sugar and softened butter. Mix in the eggs.

Step three: In a separate bowl, stir together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until combined.

Step four: Using a spatula, stir the chocolate chips into the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Tips for making these chocolate chip bars

• Let your butter soften slightly before making the dough. I usually place my butter out on the counter an hour before I am going to bake.
• Be careful not to over bake these cookie bars.
• Try serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.

How to store leftover bars

Store: Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for 4-5 days.

Freeze: Store in a freezer safe bag or container for up 3 months.

More Cookies You Might Enjoy

• German Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chocolate Oreo Cookies
• Chewy Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
• Cherry Bon Bon Cookies
• Oatmeal Fudge Bars