Tootsie Bar
Delicious chocolate-topped shortbread bars with a rich, sweet flavor and crunchy texture, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, beaten egg yolk, and brown sugar together.
- Add flour and vanilla to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Spread the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet, patting it out until it is thin and almost covers the sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Melt one large chocolate bar in a double boiler.
- Once the cookies have cooled slightly, pour the melted chocolate over them and spread evenly.
- Allow the chocolate to set, then cool completely and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half butter and half shortening. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses. Make sure to spread the mixture evenly on the cookie sheet to ensure even baking. If you want a more chocolatey experience, add chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Tootsie Bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert experience. Pair them with a cup of coffee or milk for a comforting treat. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes, alongside Gorp (Trail Mix) for a sweet and salty combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Tootsie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy later, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tootsie Bar contains roughly 208 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 margarine instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for shortening in this recipe, but it may slightly change the texture. Margarine has more water content, which can make the bars a bit softer. For best results, use stick margarine instead of spreadable types.
What if I don't have a double boiler for melting chocolate?
If you don't have a double boiler, you can melt chocolate in the microwave. Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted. Be cautious not to overheat, as chocolate can burn easily.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are lightly golden on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
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).