Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
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Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
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Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
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Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 3 minutes after each addition, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Spread the chocolate filling over the cooled crust.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
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Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate layer.
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Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until set. Cut into squares and serve.
Variations & Tips
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For a nutty twist, add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the crust before adding the chocolate filling.
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If you’re a fan of mint, try adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture for a refreshing flavor.
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For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
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You can also experiment with different chocolate types, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to suit your taste preferences.