How to make chocolate chip bars

This recipe has turned into something of a family tradition for my family. We have been making these delicious chocolate chip bars since 1949. They are extremely good with chewy, gooey centers.

We enjoy making them any time of year, but we really look forward to them during the holidays. They make great treats for kids at Halloween, and are a special treat during Thanksgiving and Christmas. We also like to give them as homemade gifts during the Christmas holidays.
Chocolate Chip Bars

Batter ingredients:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, room temperature
1/4 cup shortening
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup white sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking power
1 16 ounce package chocolate chips

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening, brown sugar, and white sugar together. Add egg yolks, vanilla and water. Mix until well blended.
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, salt and baking powder. Add to wet ingredients and stir until well combined. Pour into greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Spread entire package of chocolate chips over layer.

Icing ingredients:
2 egg whites, beaten until stiff
1 cup brown sugar, packed
Preparation:
Beat stiff egg whites and brown sugar until fluffy. Spread over chocolate chip layer.
Place in preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees F until top is golden brown.

Tip: For a double dose of chocolate, add 1/2 cup powdered cocoa to flour, salt and baking powder when sifting. Add to wet ingredients and follow the rest of the recipe as written.
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About the Author
Kathy enjoys cooking and gardening.