Easy Fudgy Bars
Rich and fudgy chocolate bars with a layered flavor of pudding, cake mix, chocolate chips, and nuts, perfect for a quick dessert that satisfies all chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chocolate pudding with milk according to the package directions, bringing it just to a boil to thicken.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the chocolate cake mix until well combined.
- Spread the batter in an 11 x 15-inch jelly roll pan sprayed with cooking spray.
- Sprinkle the top with chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can skip the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. To make these bars even fudgier, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes. You can also use gluten-free chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
These fudgy bars are perfect as a dessert on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or milk. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Coconut Topped Oatmeal Cake for a dessert spread that’s sure to impress.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudgy bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Fudgy Bars contains roughly 1196 calories, with 20g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 740mg per serving (32% 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 flavor of pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors such as butterscotch or vanilla pudding mix. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor of the bars will change, but they will still be delicious and fudgy.
What if I don't have a jelly roll pan?
If you don't have an 11 x 15-inch jelly roll pan, you can use a similar-sized baking dish, such as a 9 x 13-inch pan. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Can I freeze these fudgy bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the fudgy bars for up to three months. Wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature 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).