If you’re craving a dense, chewy, and ultra-chocolatey dessert, these Chocolate Mud Bars are just what you need. Made with simple pantry staples and loaded with rich cocoa flavor and melty chocolate chips, these bars are a dream come true for brownie and chocolate lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Mud Bars
-
Incredibly fudgy and rich with deep chocolate flavor
-
Perfect for parties, bake sales, or late-night cravings
-
Easy to make in one pan with basic ingredients
-
Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead treats
-
Customizable with nuts, extra chips, or a drizzle of caramel
Ingredients Breakdown:
-
Unsalted Butter (1 cup) – Gives richness and that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
-
Granulated Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens the bars and contributes to their chewy, fudgy consistency.
-
Eggs (4 large) – Help bind everything together and add structure.
-
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp.) – Enhances the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
-
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – The base dry ingredient that gives the bars body.
-
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup) – Provides deep, intense chocolate flavor.
-
Baking Powder (1/2 tsp.) – Adds just a bit of lift for a soft, cakey bite.
-
Salt (1/4 tsp.) – Balances out the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
-
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Melt into gooey pockets for extra chocolatey bites.
-
Chopped Nuts (1/2 cup, optional) – Add a nutty crunch and contrast to the soft texture.
Tips and Tricks
-
Don’t overbake – Mud bars should be moist and fudgy, not dry.
-
Add espresso powder (½ teaspoon) to enhance the chocolate flavor.
-
Line your pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts.
-
Top with flaky sea salt after baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Variations and Add-Ins
-
Triple Chocolate: Use a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips.
-
Nut-Free Option: Simply leave out the nuts or replace with extra chips.
-
Swirl in peanut butter or caramel before baking for extra decadence.
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
-
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
-
Pair with coffee or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate treat.
Storage Instructions
-
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Refrigerator: Keeps well chilled for up to 1 week.
-
Freezer: Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to a pinch.
Are these similar to brownies?
They’re like a cross between brownies and cookie bars—dense, chewy, and super chocolatey.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger pan (like 11×15) or bake in two 9×13-inch pans.
How do I know when they’re done?
Check with a toothpick—look for moist crumbs, not raw batter. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.