Chocolate Yum Yums
Decadent chocolate squares with a tender crumb, nutty and coconut topping, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings and suitable for sharing at gatherings or as a treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt shortening, chocolate, and brown sugar, stirring until smooth.
- Cool the mixture.
- Add the well-beaten egg to the cooled mixture.
- Sift the dry ingredients (flour, salt, soda) and add alternately with milk and vanilla to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a shallow greased pan, approximately 10½ x 15 inches.
- Sprinkle ground nuts and grated coconut on top.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for about 12 minutes.
- Cool slightly and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra rich flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate squares. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the ground nuts. You can also substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a different texture. Make sure to sift your dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Yum Yums are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy them with a side of Fireball Salad for a refreshing contrast. They make an excellent treat for gatherings or a sweet ending to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Yum Yums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Yum Yums contains roughly 127 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar or coconut sugar as alternatives. However, using granulated sugar may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.
What can I use if I don’t have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will give a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in this recipe. Just ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
Can I add additional flavors to the batter?
Absolutely! You can add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a mocha flavor or a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrus twist. If you enjoy spices, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the taste of your Chocolate Yum Yums.
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).