Decadent Chewy Chocolate Nut Bars
Indulge in these Decadent Chewy Chocolate Nut Bars that are the perfect blend of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a light meringue topping. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars bring comfort in every bite. With a combination of butter and brown sugar, the bars are chewy yet firm, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you choose walnuts or pecans, these bars are guaranteed to impress friends and family alike. Make a batch today and delight in the deliciousness that these bars have to offer!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1 cup (softened (can substitute half with margarine))
granulated sugar
1/2 cup (none)
brown sugar
1 cup (divided)
water
1 tablespoon (none)
maple extract
1 tablespoon (none)
egg yolks
2 (none)
flour
2 cups (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (none)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (none)
cinnamon
1 teaspoon (optional or to taste)
egg whites
2 (room temperature)
chocolate chips
1 cup (none)
chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup (can use more or less)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
3
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (approximately 4 minutes).
4
Add the water, maple extract, and 2 egg yolks (keep the egg whites separate). Continue mixing for another 2-3 minutes until fully combined.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and optional cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
7
Sprinkle the chocolate chips generously over the top of the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
8
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the reserved egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the remaining 1/2 cup of brown sugar, beating until the mixture is glossy and firm peaks form.
9
Gently spread the meringue over the chocolate chips, creating an even layer.
10
Top the meringue with the chopped nuts of your choice, distributing them evenly.
11
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.
12
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool slightly before cutting them into squares while still warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chewy Chocolate Nut Bars?
They are a rich dessert bar consisting of a chewy base, a layer of chocolate chips, a sweet meringue topping, and crunchy nuts.
What is the main flavor profile of these bars?
These bars offer a blend of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and a sweet maple-infused meringue topping.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 13 x 9-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half of the butter with margarine if you prefer.
How long should I cream the butter and sugar?
Cream the butter and sugars for approximately 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
What is the purpose of the maple extract?
Maple extract provides a unique, warm aromatic flavor that distinguishes these bars from standard chocolate treats.
How do I prepare the eggs for this recipe?
Separate the eggs; the yolks are mixed into the batter base, while the whites are reserved for the meringue topping.
Is cinnamon a required ingredient?
No, cinnamon is optional and can be added to the dry ingredients according to your personal taste.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Grease the baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
When do I add the chocolate chips?
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the batter after it has been spread evenly in the baking dish.
How do I make the meringue topping?
Beat the reserved egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add brown sugar and beat until glossy and firm.
What kind of nuts can I use for the topping?
You can use either chopped walnuts or pecans, depending on your preference.
How long do the bars need to bake?
Bake the bars for approximately 35 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.
Why should I cut the bars while they are still warm?
Cutting them while warm helps ensure clean squares and makes it easier to slice through the meringue topping.
Should the egg whites be at room temperature?
Yes, room temperature egg whites typically whip up to a better volume for meringue.
How do I incorporate the dry ingredients?
Gradually add the whisked flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder to the creamed mixture until just combined.
What texture can I expect from the base of these bars?
The base is designed to be chewy yet firm thanks to the combination of butter and brown sugar.
Can I adjust the amount of nuts used?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 cup of nuts, but you can use more or less to suit your taste.
What is the best way to spread the batter?
Pour the batter into the dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom before adding the toppings.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of maple extract?
While maple extract is specified, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
How many egg yolks are used in the batter?
The recipe requires 2 egg yolks for the batter base.
What should the meringue look like before baking?
The meringue should be glossy and have firm peaks before it is spread over the chocolate chips.
Is there any water in this recipe?
Yes, one tablespoon of water is added during the wet ingredient mixing stage.
What kind of chocolate chips are best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are standard, but milk or dark chocolate chips work equally well.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars store well and can be made a day in advance for gatherings.
How do I know the meringue is fully beaten?
It is ready when it is glossy and the peaks do not collapse when you lift the beaters.
Are these bars suitable for sharing?
Absolutely, they are ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Do I need an electric mixer?
An electric mixer is highly recommended for creaming the butter and whipping the egg whites into a meringue.
What should I do after removing the bars from the oven?
Allow them to cool slightly, then cut them into squares while they are still warm.