01 -  Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring edges are covered for easy removal. 
 02 -  In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer or whisk until mixture is light and fluffy. 
 03 -  Beat in vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 
 04 -  In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. 
 05 -  Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. 
 06 -  Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. 
 07 -  Spread dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until bars are golden brown and set. 
 08 -  Cool the bars completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into uniform bars. 
 09 -  Place a cookie dough bar in each serving bowl. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with warm chocolate sauce, sprinkle with nuts if desired, and finish with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.