Brookie Bars

Directions

Cookie Layer:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spray an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray. Then line the pan with two pieces of parchment paper that overlap and hang over the edges; set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shortening, butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar.
4. Beat on medium speed for 3-5 minutes or until creamy and well blended.
5. Scrape the sides of the bowl then add the eggs, milk and vanilla.
6. Start on low speed and increase to medium speed, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed, until the mixture is well blended.
7. Add in the flour mixture and combine on low speed.
8. Stir in the chocolate chips.
9. If desired, reserve about ¼ – ½ cup of dough for the top (optional).
10. Spread the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan until you have an even layer; set aside.

Brownie Layer:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder until well blended.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the shortening and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk and vanilla until well blended.
4. Pour the egg mixture and the melted shortening into the flour mixture.
5. Blend until fully incorporated.
6. Pour the brownie mixture over the cookie mixture and spread to the edges.
7. If using, drop teaspoonfuls of reserved cookie dough over the top of the brownie layer.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
10. When ready to serve, invert the pan onto a cutting board and remove the parchment paper.
11. Turn the bars over and cut them 3×3 to make nine bars.
12. Store in an airtight container.