Chocolate Spice Bars
Chocolate Spice Bars are rich, moist treats infused with warm spices and chocolate chips, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and spiciness. Perfect for dessert or snack times, they appeal to spice lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, making them a versatile addition to any baking repertoire.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine and mix it with the brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, then mix well.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into two greased 9 x 13-inch baking pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the brown sugar to 3 cups. If you're out of certain spices, you can substitute with a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice. Ensure to sift the flour and baking powder together for a lighter texture in these Chocolate Spice Bars.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Spice Bars are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a fantastic dessert alongside Coconut Cream Pies or for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Spice Bars contains roughly 392 calories, with 1g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 21g 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 use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Mixing in some peanut butter chips can also add a delicious twist to the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven and the type of pans used.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these Chocolate Spice Bars a day in advance. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can also be frozen and then thawed, making them perfect for preparing ahead for gatherings.
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).