Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are a unique take on traditional toffee bars, offering a chewy texture with a rich coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with milk chocolate chips. They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and incredibly delicious, making them a must-try for anyone who loves coffee-infused desserts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cookie Layer:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup dark brown sugar
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2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
For the Topping:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the instant coffee granules and mix until smooth.
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Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
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Press the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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While the base is baking, heat the sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
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Once the cookie base is done baking, remove from the oven and pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top. Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips on top.
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Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the chips are melted.
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Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12 bars
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Add Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
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Espresso Version: Swap the instant coffee for espresso powder for a more intense coffee flavor.
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Caramel Layer: Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce over the sweetened condensed milk topping for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply thaw before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use decaf coffee granules?
Yes, you can substitute with decaffeinated instant coffee if you prefer.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars in advance and store them for a few days or freeze them for later.
3. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate will work just as well for a richer taste.
4. How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the top layer of sweetened condensed milk should be bubbly.
5. Can I add more coffee flavor to these bars?
Yes, you can add a tablespoon of espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor.
6. Can I use a different type of milk for the topping?
Sweetened condensed milk is best for the topping as it creates the perfect texture. Regular milk won’t work as well.
7. How can I cut the bars neatly?
Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares to avoid crumbling.
8. Can I use a different type of sugar?
While brown sugar adds a rich flavor, you can use regular granulated sugar if needed.
9. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
10. What can I serve with these bars?
These bars are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or milk.
Conclusion
These Coffee Cookie Crack Bars are a must-try for coffee and dessert lovers alike. With their chewy texture, sweet coffee flavor, and decadent chocolate topping, they’re a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to make and highly addictive, these bars will quickly become a favorite!
Print
Coffee Cookie Crack Bars
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coffee Cookie Crack Bars are a deliciously chewy dessert that blends the rich flavors of brown sugar and coffee with a gooey sweetened condensed milk topping. With a soft, cookie-like texture and a decadent milk chocolate chip finish, these bars are a coffee lover’s dream. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to satisfy your sweet and coffee cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Layer:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
For the Topping:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
-
Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the instant coffee granules and mix until smooth.
-
Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
-
Press the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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While the base is baking, heat the sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
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Once the cookie base is done baking, remove from the oven and pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top. Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips on top.
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Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the chips are melted.
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Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
For a crunchier texture, add chopped walnuts or pecans.
Swap the instant coffee for espresso powder for a more intense coffee flavor.
For extra richness, drizzle caramel sauce over the sweetened condensed milk topping.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American