Are you craving a decadent and indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than these Sweetened Condensed Milk Chocolate Chip Bars! These bars are the epitome of irresistible goodness, featuring a buttery, chocolatey base loaded with gooey chocolate chips and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious dessert, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these heavenly treats!
Ingredients:
Baking & Spices:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Dash of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chocolate chips (for extra richness)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Dairy:
- 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until well combined and a soft dough forms.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
- Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts over the dough.
- Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the chocolate chips and nuts.
- Add the Remaining Dough:
- Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough over the top of the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk layer.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or bars.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve these delectable Sweetened Condensed Milk Chocolate Chip Bars as a delightful dessert or treat. Enjoy with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vanilla Extract: For an extra boost of flavor, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
- Swap Nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts in place of pecans or walnuts. Almonds, macadamia nuts, or peanuts would all be delicious options.
- Mix Up the Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, to customize the bars to your liking.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: For an elegant touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars before serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the bars, especially since salt is already added to the dough.
Q: How should I store these bars? A: Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, these bars freeze well. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make these bars without nuts? A: Absolutely! You can omit the nuts altogether if you prefer or substitute them with additional chocolate chips or shredded coconut for added texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of these Sweetened Condensed Milk Chocolate Chip Bars:
- Almond Flour: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
- Sugar Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of sugar.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for sugar-free or high-cacao dark chocolate chips to lower the sugar content.
In conclusion, these Sweetened Condensed Milk Chocolate Chip Bars are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery base, gooey chocolate filling, and crunchy nuts, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, potluck, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, these bars are guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the irresistible goodness of these delectable bars!
