Chocolate chip cookie bars

Last week I posted a recipe for a dessert roll that used up some Halloween candy.  It was a hit, and Im getting comments and emails about how people are trying it out and loving it.  Here is another way to get rid of that leftover candy that is sitting, tempting you, calling your name. 

Ingredients:

1 stick of melted butter
1 egg
1 cup of packed light brown sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup of all purpose flour

assorted chocolate candies, M&Ms, Heath, caramels, crushed pretzel pieces, crushed Reese's peanut butter cups, Reese's pieces, Oreos, chocolate chips, peppermint pieces, etc.  I used about 2 cups in all.  I personally used chocolate chips, original M&M's, and pretzel M&M's.  And because Werther's sent me a box of caramels to try out and create new recipes with, I used a few of those, too.  I cut each one in about 6 small pieces and added it to the batter. 

Preheat the oven to 350*.  Spray a square baking pan (I used 9x9) with non stick cooking spray.  I melted the butter in the microwave (at about 20 seconds at a time.) and set it out to cool for a while.  If you add the eggs to hot butter, the eggs will cook.  You DO NOT want that!!!   When the butter is cooled, add the egg, the brown sugar and vanilla and whisk together.  Add the flour and stir until combined.  Don't overmix.  Then mix in the candy toppings.  Pour the batter into the baking pan and bake for 18-20 minutes.  Any longer will make the cookies harder and crunchier than planned. You want these to be soft and chewy and gooey.  The chocolate is gooey, the caramels are gooey and the cookies are soft and delicious.  Cut them up in good size squares and enjoy.  A perfect way to use up some leftover Halloween candy.  Bake some of these up and share them with neighbors.