Chip 'N Nut Bars
Chewy, chocolate-chip nut bars with a rich coffee flavor, perfect for a sweet snack or lunchbox treat, appealing to those who love a combination of nuts, chocolate, and coffee notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients except nuts and chips together and mix on lowest speed of mixer or by hand until well blended.
- Add half of the chocolate chips and half of the nuts to the mixture.
- Spread the batter in a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan that has been coated with margarine.
- Top with the remaining chocolate chips and nuts.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Cool and cut into squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your margarine is soft but not melted. You can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor. For a caffeine boost, consider using espresso powder instead of instant coffee. If you're nut-free, feel free to omit the nuts entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect as a sweet treat for any gathering. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, try serving them with the Lemon Apple Salad as a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chip 'N Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chip 'N Nut Bars contains roughly 215 calories, with 0g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% 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 butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe for a richer flavor. Just ensure it is softened to the same consistency as margarine to maintain the texture of the bars.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute chocolate chips with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even dried fruits for a unique twist on these bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
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).