Mer-Mer’s Chocolate Chess Bars
Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 1 large batch (approximately 12-16 bars)
Description
If you’re craving a decadent, gooey dessert with a twist, then Mer-Mer’s Chocolate Chess Bars are exactly what you need. This recipe from lovewithrecipes.com is a treat that balances the richness of cream cheese and chocolate chips with the moistness of a cake base, all finished off with a golden, crispy top. Ideal for sharing during casual gatherings, lunch, snacks, or summer picnics, these bars are a crowd-pleasing favorite. They are so simple to make with minimal prep and baking time, yet result in a melt-in-your-mouth delight that no one will be able to resist.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Margarine, softened | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Powdered sugar (confectioner’s) | 2 cups |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 7536.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 265.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 87.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 884 mg |
| Sodium | 6164.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1284.3 g |
| Fiber | 12.2 g |
| Sugars | 1085.3 g |
| Protein | 67.1 g |
Note: Nutritional values are based on a single batch yielding 12-16 bars.
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking the bars to perfection, ensuring the top gets a golden, crispy finish while the inside remains moist. -
Prepare the Pan:
Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and generously coat it with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make them easier to remove after baking. -
Mix the Cake Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix with the softened margarine and 1 egg. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend these ingredients together until smooth. The mixture will resemble a thick dough, but that’s exactly what you want for the base. -
Layer the Cake Base:
Once the cake mixture is well combined, pour it evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it out to cover the entire bottom of the pan, ensuring an even layer for the base. -
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Once combined, add the remaining 2 eggs and mix until the batter is fluffy and well-blended. This will create a creamy, velvety layer that sits perfectly on top of the cake base. -
Assemble the Bars:
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This layer will form a luscious, sweet contrast to the dense cake base beneath it. -
Add the Chocolate Chips:
Generously sprinkle the chocolate chips over the cream cheese mixture. The chips will melt slightly during baking, giving the bars a wonderful chocolatey texture and flavor that complements the richness of the cream cheese layer. -
Bake the Bars:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. The edges should be firm, while the center will be slightly set but soft. Be careful not to overbake as the bars are best when slightly gooey in the center. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the bars are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the layers to firm up and make for cleaner cuts. Serve and enjoy the perfect balance of gooey chocolate and creamy texture.
Tips for Success
- Consistency: Make sure your margarine is softened to room temperature, not melted, for the best texture in the base layer.
- Cream Cheese Tip: If you forget to soften the cream cheese, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until softened. This will ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Chocolate Chips: Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for your favorite kind of baking chocolate. Dark chocolate or white chocolate chips can create unique flavor variations!
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for a decadent dessert experience.
Storage and Serving
These bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. If you prefer to freeze them, simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Enjoying Mer-Mer’s Chocolate Chess Bars
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, sending a treat to school with your kids, or simply craving a homemade dessert, these Mer-Mer’s Chocolate Chess Bars will quickly become a household favorite. The rich layers of chocolate, cream cheese, and cake combine to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a delicious batch of bars that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
For more delicious recipes like this, visit lovewithrecipes.com.
