Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with non-stick foil or with foil sprayed with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
• In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; set aside.
• Separate the egg. Place the egg white in a clean, dry bowl and set aside for the meringue; keep the egg yolk for the base.
• In a larger bowl, using a hand mixer, beat 1/2 cup butter (room temperature) with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar until very light and fluffy.
• Add the egg yolk, 1 1/2 teaspoons water, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla to the butter mixture; mix until combined. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
• Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the dough.
• With the reserved egg white, beat until stiff peaks form. Gradually beat in 1/2 cup brown sugar, continuing to beat until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
• Spread the meringue evenly over the chocolate chips, sealing to the edges of the pan.
• Bake for 25 minutes, or until the meringue is golden on top.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.