Description

Rich, fudgy, and decadently chocolaty, these Chocolate Mud Bars are a chocolate lover’s dream. With a gooey center, crackly top, and bursts of melty chocolate chips, they strike the perfect balance between brownie and bar. A sprinkle of optional nuts adds a little crunch, making these bars irresistibly good for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work well)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Melt the Butter and Add Sugar

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.

3. Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

5. Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—avoid overmixing to maintain that perfect chewy texture.

6. Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and nuts, if using.

7. Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, slice into squares or rectangles.

Notes

These bars are great for gifting or sharing at events.
They cut best when fully cooled or slightly chilled.
Feel free to frost with chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent layer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American