Get ready to experience a mind-blowing dessert that combines the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the warm, comforting sweetness of maple and the satisfying crunch of mixed nuts! These Chocolate Maple Nut Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary sensory experience. Perfect for those moments when you crave something indulgent yet homemade, these bars promise to be the star of your dessert table and leave everyone begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended and no lumps remain.
- Pour the melted unsalted butter into the dry ingredient mixture. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes a crumbly, moist dough that holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating a compact base layer.
- In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup with the chopped mixed nuts. Stir until the nuts are completely coated with the syrup.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the pressed dough base in the baking pan.
- Pour the maple-coated nuts over the chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution across the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges begin to look slightly crisp and the top appears set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the entire batch out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 equal bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The better your nuts, chocolate chips, and maple syrup, the more delicious your bars will be.
- Ensure even pressing of the base: Take your time when creating the base layer to guarantee a uniform, compact foundation that holds together well.
- Toast your nuts beforehand: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the mixed nuts in a dry skillet before mixing with maple syrup to enhance their nutty profile.
- Watch the baking time carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars around the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.
- Allow complete cooling: Patience is key! Let the bars cool entirely to achieve the perfect texture and easy cutting.
- Store properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
