Fast And Fat Bars
Sweet and chewy bars with chocolate, coconut, and pecans, perfect for a quick dessert or snack that appeals to chocolate lovers and nut enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (325°F if using a glass pan).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and margarine until well blended.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch pan to form a crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and evenly spread sweetened condensed milk over the crust.
- Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans on top.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the chocolate chips are melted and the topping is golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra texture and flavor. Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together when baked.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for a quick dessert or snack and pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to a picnic or potluck. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. They are versatile enough to complement coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, and they will last for about two weeks. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast And Fat Bars contains roughly 451 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 use another type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the bars, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
What should I do if my chocolate chips aren't melting?
If your chocolate chips aren't melting well, you can cover the pan with foil during the final baking stage to create a steamy environment, which helps the chocolate melt more evenly. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate chips in a microwave and then spread them over the crust for a smoother finish.
How can I make these bars more chocolatey?
For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add an extra half cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips or even mix in some dark chocolate chips. Drizzling melted chocolate over the top after baking can also enhance the chocolatey goodness.
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).