Cocoa Bars
Rich cocoa bars with a moist, tender crumb and deep chocolate flavor, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and enjoyed by all ages at gatherings or as a treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, sugar, and egg until well combined.
- Stir in buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Add sifted dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa; mix until smooth.
- Spread the batter evenly in a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder. If you want a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and ensure even mixing. If you're short on buttermilk, regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar can be a great substitute.
Serving Suggestions
These cocoa bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful twist, serve alongside a warm slice of Peach 'N Pear Cobbler for a satisfying dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the cocoa bars 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, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to achieve a warm, gooey texture without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocoa Bars contains roughly 618 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2177mg per serving (95% 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 fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter or coconut oil for shortening. Keep in mind that butter will add a slightly different flavor and may affect the texture slightly, making the bars richer.
What should I do if I don't have any buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will create a similar acidity needed for the recipe.
How can I tell when the cocoa bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, they are ready. Keep in mind that overbaking may lead to dryness, so check a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends.
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).