Chocolate Applesauce Bars
Chocolate applesauce bars are moist, fudgy treats with a hint of vanilla and walnuts, perfect for a quick dessert or snack that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, shortening, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients: flour, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for about 35 minutes in a 350°F oven.
- Bake until the top springs back when touched.
- Cut into bars while still warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened applesauce or adding a splash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste. If you're out of walnuts, pecans or chocolate chips can be great substitutes. For a lighter version, you can replace half the shortening with applesauce.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside an E-Z Shrimp Dip for a fun party spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chocolate Applesauce Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or enjoy them cold as a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Applesauce Bars contains roughly 306 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, it may result in a denser texture. If you prefer a lighter bar, you might want to use a mix of both flours.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Chocolate Applesauce Bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking powder and cocoa, are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Absolutely! Allow the Chocolate Applesauce Bars to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying.
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).