1-Getting ready: Getting ready to bake these Chocolate Nutella Cookie Bars is straightforward and fun, starting with preheating your oven for even cooking. Begin by setting it to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, then give it a light spray with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This simple prep ensures your bars lift out easily and keep their shape.

2-Preparing the dough: Next, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and packed light brown sugar until they’re fully combined and creamy this creates the base for that chewy texture. Add the pure vanilla extract and large egg, mixing everything well to incorporate air and flavor. Then, stir in the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, baking soda, and salt until the dough comes together smoothly.

3-Baking the base and adding toppings: Press a bit more than half of this dough evenly into your prepared pan, and pop the rest in the fridge to chill. Bake the crust for about 12 minutes until it’s set but not fully done. Pull it out, dollop on the chocolate hazelnut spread, spread it lightly with an offset spatula, and sprinkle over the semisweet chocolate chips for that gooey layer.

4-Finishing Touches: Take the chilled dough, press it into flat pieces, and lay them evenly over the chocolate topping to seal in the goodness. Bake for another 18 to 22 minutes until the top turns golden brown. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting; serve them slightly warm to keep the center melty and irresistible. With a total prep and bake time of 45 minutes, this recipe fits right into a busy day.