Chocolate Fudge-Nut Cream Cheese Bars
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
Yield: 24 Bars
Description:
Dive into the indulgent delight of these Chocolate Fudge-Nut Cream Cheese Bars, a truly decadent treat that combines rich chocolate with creamy cheese and crunchy nuts, all nestled within a buttery, soft crust. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a special dessert, these bars are both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Follow these simple steps from Love With Recipes to create a batch of these heavenly bars that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups butter or margarine
- 1/2 cup margarine (if using margarine, otherwise use additional butter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the bars evenly.
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Prepare the Pan: Lightly butter a 13 x 9-inch baking pan. This step is crucial to prevent the bars from sticking and to achieve a golden-brown finish.
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Make the Chocolate Fudge Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate pieces, cream cheese, and evaporated milk. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Once smooth, remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside. Stir in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture.
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Prepare the Crust Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter or margarine until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for a tender and flavorful crust.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, blending well until fully combined.
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Assemble the Bars:
- Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer.
- Spread the chocolate fudge mixture evenly over the crust layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the chocolate layer. Gently press down to ensure the topping adheres.
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Bake the Bars:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. The bars are done when the crust is lightly browned and set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
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Cut and Serve:
- Once cooled, cut into 24 bars. These rich and creamy treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 294.1
- Fat Content: 15.2 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 7.5 g
- Cholesterol Content: 40.6 mg
- Sodium Content: 84.5 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 35.6 g
- Fiber Content: 1.7 g
- Sugar Content: 20.3 g
- Protein Content: 4.7 g
Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy textures of these Chocolate Fudge-Nut Cream Cheese Bars, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends. These bars are sure to become a favorite treat in your baking repertoire! 🍫🌰🍰
