Imagine sinking your teeth into the most decadent, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate bars that are so rich and fudgy, they'll make your chocolate cravings surrender instantly! These aren't just ordinary dessert bars - they're a chocolate lover's ultimate dream, packed with intense chocolate flavor and a texture so divine, you'll be tempted to hide the entire batch just for yourself. Whether you're looking to impress guests, treat yourself, or create a show-stopping dessert, these Fudgy Chocolate Cake Bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or line with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage with slight overhang for easy removal.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter completely. Use 30-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning.
- Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined, creating a glossy texture.
- Crack the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. This helps remove lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for topping. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The bars will continue to set as they cool.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- For best texture, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Alternatively, refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for better ingredient incorporation and smoother batter.
- Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough, dense bars instead of tender, fudgy ones.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the most intense chocolate flavor.
- For extra richness, use dark chocolate chips instead of standard semi-sweet.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, crisp edges.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and perfect cutting.
- For an extra indulgent touch, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness.
- These bars freeze beautifully - wrap individually for quick chocolate fixes later!
- For a gourmet twist, add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
