Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for a sweet treat that just screams fun and nostalgia, look no further than these Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. In every bite, you’ll sink into a chewy, buttery base bursting with melty chocolate chips and that iconic pop of candy-coated Reece’s Pieces on top. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, packing a lunchbox, or simply satisfying your own sweet tooth, this recipe guarantees smiles with very little fuss—just a handful of pantry ingredients and a few simple steps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about creating irresistible cookie bars with just a few everyday ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, making these Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars buttery, soft, and absolutely crave-worthy—plus, those splashes of candy color make them a feast for the eyes!

• Yellow Cake Mix: The ultimate shortcut that brings sweetness and fluffiness, with zero measuring mess.
• Melted Butter: Delivers rich flavor and luscious chewiness to the bars.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon lifts all the flavors and adds that irresistible bakery aroma.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and keep every bite moist and tender.
• Chocolate Chips: Because gooey, melty chocolate is a must in any dream cookie bar.
• Reece’s Pieces: These classic candies add pops of peanut butter flavor and a rainbow crunch on top.

How to Make Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Mix Up the Dough

Add the yellow cake mix, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Stir it all together until the batter is smooth and no dry streaks remain—it should look thick and creamy, almost like a cross between cake and cookie dough.

Step 2: Stir in the Chocolate Chips

Fold in those generous chocolate chips until they’re evenly tucked throughout the dough. You want chocolate in every nook and cranny for the ultimate bite!

Step 3: Spread in the Pan

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, then press the dough in with clean hands or a spatula. Smooth it into an even layer, pushing all the way to the corners so every piece bakes up golden and chewy.

Step 4: Top with Reece’s Pieces

Sprinkle the Reece’s Pieces over the top of the batter—don’t be shy! Press them in gently so they stick but stay bright and visible for that happy pop of color.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Slide the pan into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for golden brown edges and a center that’s just set. Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan (if you can wait!) before cutting. This helps them firm up perfectly for slicing.

How to Serve Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Garnishes

While these Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are plenty festive on their own, you can dress up the platter with a dusting of powdered sugar, an extra drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

For gatherings, set out a bowl of fresh berries or a cool glass of milk—both complement the richness and soften the sweetness. Coffee or hot cocoa also pairs perfectly for cozy afternoons or dessert spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices into ice cream sandwiches, stack them high and tie with baker’s twine for gift-giving, or cut into smaller squares for party platters. Their vibrant colors and gooey centers always make an impression, however you choose to serve them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras (which isn’t guaranteed!), keep your Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to four days—perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or late-night cravings.

Freezing

To enjoy these bars even longer, double-wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months, ready for whenever your sweet tooth strikes. Thaw at room temperature or give them a quick zap in the microwave.

Reheating

If you love your cookie bars warm and gooey, microwave a square for 10–15 seconds until just heated through. The chocolate softens, the edges turn almost cake-like again, and the aroma is downright irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! White or chocolate cake mix will work great and give a slightly different background flavor, but yellow cake mix keeps things classic and extra buttery.

Are these cookie bars nut free?

Reece’s Pieces contain peanut butter, so if you need a nut-free dessert, simply swap them with colorful candy-coated chocolates or peanut-free candies of your choice.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even mini marshmallows make tasty additions—just keep the total add-ins around 2 to 2 1/2 cups so the bars bake evenly.

Do the bars need to be refrigerated?

No need! They’re happiest at room temperature in a sealed container, where they’ll stay chewy and fresh for several days. If your kitchen is especially warm, you can refrigerate them for added freshness.

Can I make these as individual cookies?

This recipe is designed for easy bar baking, but you can scoop the dough onto parchment for cookies. Keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time and monitor for doneness a little more closely.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Reece’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars enough—they’re pure, joyful comfort in every square, and truly as easy as they are delicious. Get ready to win rave reviews from everyone lucky enough to snag a slice. Happy baking!