Chew-Chews
Chew-Chews are chewy, coconut-flavored bars with a rich molasses taste, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, hearty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the shortening, sugar, and molasses.
- Beat in the eggs very well.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients until blended.
- Line a jelly roll pan (15 x 10 x 1-inch) with paper, then grease the paper well.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F.
- Immediately turn the pan onto a wire rack.
- Remove the paper from the bars.
- Turn the bars right side up and cool.
- Cut into 1 x 2-inch bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of regular. If you want a nutty twist, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added. Make sure to beat the eggs well to incorporate air for a lighter texture. If you don’t have shredded coconut, you can use finely chopped dried fruit as a substitute. Always ensure your oven is preheated for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Chew-Chews into bite-sized bars for a perfect snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee and make a delightful treat for picnics or lunch boxes. Consider serving them alongside Microwave Hot Cocoa for a cozy dessert experience. These bars can also be topped with a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chew-Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or let them sit at room temperature until softened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chew-Chews contains roughly 957 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1776mg per serving (77% 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 a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or gluten-free blends. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture and flavor of the Chew-Chews. If using whole wheat flour, you may need to add a little more liquid to achieve the right consistency.
What can I do if the batter is too thick?
If you find the batter is too thick to spread easily, you can add a small amount of milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much, as this could affect the final texture of the Chew-Chews.
Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many ingredients might require adjustments in baking time.
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).