These Cookie Butter Bars start with a simple oatmeal cookie dough that is baked, then topped with chocolate chips and lots of gooey cookie butter and finished off with another layer of oatmeal cookie dough.
PREP: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
BATTER: In a large bowl, mix together the room temp butter, brown sugar, flour, oats, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt using electric hand mixers until a thick dough forms. Divide the mixture in half and press half of it into the prepared pan.
COOKIEBUTTER: Measure out 1 cup of cookie butter and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 15-30 seconds or until warm enough to pour.
BAKE BASE: Bake the base for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the crust. Pour the cookie butter over the chocolate chips, using a spatula to gently smooth it into an even layer.
BAKE BARS AGAIN: Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the caramel layer (don't press it down), then bake for another 13-18 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the top is set.
LET STAND: Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars. These bars are best enjoyed within 2-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Notes
Note 1: You can find Cookie Butter at Trader Joe's and Biscoff Spread at most grocery stores--look by the nut butter!Note 2: I love milk chocolate chips, but if you prefer less sweetness or like dark chocolate more, go for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead.