Dairy Bars
Dairy Bars combine rich chocolate, coconut, and crunchy nuts in a layered treat, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for parties or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, 1/2 cup butter, cocoa, and beaten egg in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts to the mixture and stir well.
- Press the mixture into a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan to form a crust.
- Allow the crust to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream, 1/2 cup butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread the cream mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Melt chocolate chips and spread over the top of the cream layer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa instead of regular cocoa powder. You can also substitute the chopped nuts with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch or use almond flour for a gluten-free option. Ensure the butter is softened for easier blending with the cream mixture. If you prefer a no-bake version, skip the boiling step and chill the mixture before pressing it into the pan.
Serving Suggestions
These Dairy Bars are perfect for dessert gatherings and pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a delightful treat alongside coffee or tea. For a special occasion, serve them with a slice of Matt's Favorite Pie for a delightful dessert spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dairy Bars contains roughly 514 calories, with 8g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these Dairy Bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added texture without the allergens. This will keep the bars delicious and safe for those with nut allergies.
How do I ensure the crust holds together?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create a compact crust. Let it cool completely before adding the cream layer; this will help it set and hold its shape better when cut into bars.
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the quantity based on sweetness preference. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly with different sweeteners.
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).