Easy Fudge Bars
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s rich, chewy, and utterly satisfying, then look no further than these Easy Fudge Bars. Perfect for a quick treat or a sweet ending to any meal, these bars are a chocolate lover’s dream come true. With a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful bars that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
These Easy Fudge Bars are not just another dessert; they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The combination of unsweetened chocolate and walnuts creates a rich flavor that is comforting and indulgent. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, and the ingredients are commonly found in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a treat to enjoy at home, these fudge bars will fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them over several days.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make these Easy Fudge Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup salted butter – This adds richness and moisture to the bars.
- 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped – The star of the show, providing a deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 large eggs – These help to bind the ingredients together and give the bars structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the fudge bars and balances the bitterness of the chocolate.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the flavor profile with a warm, aromatic essence.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Gives the bars just the right amount of structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Elevates the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Cook’s Kit
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience:
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula – For folding in the flour and nuts.
- 9×9 inch baking pan – The perfect size for these fudge bars.
- Parchment paper – Makes removing the bars from the pan a breeze.
- Oven – Preheat to ensure even baking.
Build Easy Fudge Bars Step by Step
This recipe is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Fudge Bars:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your fudge bars will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some paper hang over the edges. This will allow for easy removal later.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter and unsweetened chocolate together. Stir frequently until completely smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add in the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined.
Step 6: Add the Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will add a delightful crunch to your fudge bars.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the fudge bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
These Easy Fudge Bars are delicious as is, but you can easily elevate them with seasonal ingredients:
- Fall: Add in some pumpkin spice for a cozy twist.
- Winter: Mix in some peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive flavor.
- Spring: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like cherries or apricots for a fresh taste.
- Summer: Top with fresh berries or serve with ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
Missteps & Fixes
Even the best bakers encounter hiccups. Here are some common missteps when making Easy Fudge Bars and how to fix them:
- Overbaking: If your bars are too dry, they were likely baked too long. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
- Uneven texture: Make sure to properly mix the wet and dry ingredients without overmixing, as this can lead to a tough texture.
- Sticking to the pan: Always line your pan with parchment paper and allow the bars to cool before attempting to remove them.
- Too crumbly: If your bars are falling apart, it may be due to not enough binding from the eggs. Ensure you are using large eggs as specified.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Easy Fudge Bars fresh and delicious:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Ask the Chef
Can I use chocolate chips instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can use semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just reduce the amount of sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have a nut allergy, feel free to substitute with pecans or omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking pan (like a 9×13 inch pan). Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a little longer.
How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?
For an extra chocolatey kick, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients or drizzling melted chocolate on top once the bars have cooled.
Wrap-Up
These Easy Fudge Bars are the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and nutty crunch, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to store them properly to enjoy their deliciousness for days to come. Get ready to indulge in the rich, fudgy flavor of these bars that will surely become a favorite in your home!
There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking, especially when it results in a delectable dessert like these Easy Fudge Bars. Whip up a batch today and enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Easy Fudge Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Melt the salted butter and unsweetened chocolate together in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Step 4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add in the melted chocolate mixture.
- Step 5: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Fold into the wet mixture.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Step 8: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for a longer shelf life.
