Chocolate Chip Picnic Bars
Sweet and chewy chocolate chip picnic bars combine wholesome whole wheat, shredded coconut, and crunchy nuts for a delightful treat suitable for picnics, snacks, or desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the brown sugar and oil in a mixing bowl.
- Add the beaten eggs and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Add the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, then mix well.
- Spread the batter evenly into a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using melted coconut oil instead of regular oil. You can also substitute half the chocolate chips with dried fruits for added texture and flavor. If you want a gluten-free version, try using almond flour instead of whole wheat flour. Ensure to adjust baking time as needed to accommodate different flours.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate chip picnic bars are perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a lunchbox treat. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with Banana Coconut Cream Pudding for a tropical-themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover picnic bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until just warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Picnic Bars contains roughly 556 calories, with 8g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 910mg per serving (40% 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 substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blends, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly. Adjust the baking time if needed, especially with gluten-free options.
How can I make these bars more chewy?
To achieve a chewier texture, try adding an extra egg or using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar if you decide to adjust the recipe. Additionally, baking for a shorter time can help retain moisture.
Can I freeze these picnic bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or warm them up slightly in the oven.
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).