Geneva'S Coffee Bars
Geneva's Coffee Bars are rich, moist treats infused with coffee and chocolate, boasting warm cinnamon and crunchy nuts. Perfect for coffee lovers and those craving a quick homemade dessert, they combine the comforting flavors of chocolate and nuts with a delightful coffee twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar.
- Add the egg and beat thoroughly.
- Add the hot coffee and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Stir the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture, blending well.
- Add the chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
- While still warm, frost with a powdered sugar glaze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder instead of some of the flour. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a good substitute, but it may alter the texture slightly. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with additional chocolate chips. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
These coffee bars are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a cup of brewed coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in textures. For a brunch spread, they can complement other treats like Oatmeal Drop Cookies or a Brunch Souffle.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover coffee bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Geneva'S Coffee Bars contains roughly 276 calories, with 2g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 decaf coffee for this recipe?
Yes, you can use decaf coffee if you prefer to avoid caffeine. The flavor will still be rich and delicious, just less stimulating. Ensure the coffee is hot when added to the mixture to help blend the ingredients effectively.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts or pecans are excellent choices due to their rich flavor and crunch. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or even mix different types for added texture and taste.
Can I freeze these coffee bars?
Absolutely! Allow the coffee bars to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator 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).