6. Bake and cool your bars. until top is shiny, cracked, and light golden brown, 22 to 25 minutes; do not overbake. The edges should be set, but the middle should be dry to touch but may still feel soft. The bars will continue to bake and set up as they cool. Cool on wire rack to room temperature. Remove bars from pan by lifting foil overhang and transfer to cutting board. Cut into 16 bars and serve.