Chocolate Mincemeat Bars
Chocolate mincemeat bars combine rich semi-sweet chocolate with spiced mincemeat for a moist, flavorful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or an indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter or margarine and sugar together.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time.
- Add flour, baking soda, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Mix with a wooden spoon.
- Add mincemeat and mix until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly on a greased and lightly floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into bars. Serve warm or cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to mix the batter gently to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to denser bars. For a festive twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. These bars are perfect for the holidays, much like Louisiana Pecan Waffles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chocolate mincemeat bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. For a festive dessert platter, consider including them alongside Deanna'S Banana Nut Bread or Breakfast Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate mincemeat 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, warm individual bars in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Mincemeat Bars contains roughly 616 calories, with 11g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% 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 homemade mincemeat instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can definitely use homemade mincemeat! Just make sure it's well-seasoned and has the right balance of flavors. Homemade versions can add a personal touch and enhance the overall taste of the bars.
What can I substitute for semi-sweet chocolate chips?
If you prefer a different chocolate flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips as substitutes. For a healthier option, try using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content, which will add a rich depth to the bars.
Can I freeze these chocolate mincemeat bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).