Chocolate Chews
Chocolate Chews are rich, fudgy treats packed with cocoa and crunchy pecans, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and nuttiness. Perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings, these chewy bars are great for dessert tables, snack trays, or any occasion that calls for indulgent homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine in a saucepan.
- Combine eggs, sugar, and vanilla flavoring with the melted margarine.
- Gradually add flour and cocoa to the mixture, mixing well.
- Add 1/2 cup of pecans to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 11-inch pan.
- Sprinkle remaining pecans on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the mixture rises and then falls back down.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. You can also substitute half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can work as great alternatives. Ensure that your egg is at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Chews are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee. For a delightful twist, drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving. They also pair beautifully with Easy Pumpkin Swirl for a seasonal dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for about a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chews contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 make these Chocolate Chews gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum to help with the texture. The result will still be delicious and chewy.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can replace margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, vegan butter or even applesauce can work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the Chocolate Chews are done baking?
The Chocolate Chews are done when the top appears set and slightly cracked, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
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).