There is something utterly delightful about biting into a soft, chewy bar filled with gooey chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts. These chocolate chip walnut bars are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth and impresses your guests.
When I was growing up, my grandmother used to bake these bars for family gatherings. As the tantalizing aroma of melting chocolate and baked nuts filled the kitchen, my cousins and I would impatiently wait around the counter, eager for that first bite. It’s a cherished memory that comes alive every time I prepare this recipe, bringing that same joy and warmth to my own family table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is loved for several reasons. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Secondly, these bars are highly versatile – perfect for a quick snack, a lunchbox surprise, or a delightful dessert. Their texture is a perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, thanks to the combination of chocolate chips and walnuts. Lastly, they keep well, maintaining their delicious flavor for days, if they last that long!
Ingredients Notes
Let’s talk about the essential ingredients. Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best gooey texture and flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate is ideal, but you can also try dark chocolate for a richer flavor. As for walnuts, make sure they are fresh to avoid any bitterness. If walnuts are not your thing, pecans make an excellent substitute. All-purpose flour forms the base of your bars, while a mix of brown and granulated sugar adds depth of flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it generously with butter. This ensures easy removal of the bars once baked.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine one cup of melted butter, one cup of packed brown sugar, and half a cup of granulated sugar. Mix until the sugars are fully dissolved into the butter.
Step 3
Add two large eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Beat until well incorporated, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together two and a half cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Step 5
Stir in one cup of chocolate chips and one cup of chopped walnuts. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing.
Storage Options
To store your chocolate chip walnut bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
If you have dietary restrictions or prefer different flavors, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or use sunflower seeds instead. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an additional flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them as they are with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. They also make a lovely dessert when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra indulgence. During the holidays, these bars are a delightful addition to any festive dessert spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars without nuts? Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to include them, you can leave the walnuts out entirely. The bars will still be deliciously chewy and full of chocolatey goodness without them.
What’s the best way to melt butter for this recipe? The easiest way to melt butter is to use a microwave. Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. Alternatively, you can melt the butter on the stovetop over low heat.
Can I use other types of chocolate? Yes, you can! This recipe is flexible, and you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference. Mixing different types adds an interesting variety of flavors and textures.
Chocolate Chip Walnut Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet
- 1 cup walnuts chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
