Big Chunk Bars
Chewy, chocolatey bars with oats, dates, and pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for snacks or dessert lovers seeking a hearty treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix self-rising flour, oatmeal, and salt together with a wooden spoon.
- Add heated margarine, egg, and vanilla to the dry mixture and stir until combined.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flour onto the diced dates to prevent sticking, then add dates, broken pecans, and chocolate pieces to the mixture.
- Stir all ingredients until evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and spread evenly with fingers.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes, ensuring not to overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of molasses. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor, or use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. If you don't have Saco Big Chunk chocolate pieces, any chocolate chips will work well. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a great snack or dessert and pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat, perfect for dessert after a family dinner. They also complement well with a fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Big Chunk Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you prefer them warm, you can reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big Chunk Bars contains roughly 370 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. Just add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic the leavening effect of self-rising flour.
What can I replace the dates with?
You can replace the diced dates with raisins or chopped dried apricots if you prefer. Both options will add a nice sweetness to the bars while keeping a chewy texture.
Can these bars be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Big Chunk Bars for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).