There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bars wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? With Old Fashioned Chocolate Revel Bars, you’re not just indulging in a dessert, but also creating a nostalgic experience filled with rich, gooey chocolate fudge layered between buttery oatmeal. This delightful treat is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, as it strikes that perfect balance between sweetness and texture. What makes these Chocolate Revel Bars even better is their freezer-friendly nature, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them whenever a craving strikes. Plus, you can easily customize them with optional nuts or gluten-free substitutes, making them adaptable for everyone. So, are you ready to uncover the joy of baking these delectable bars?
Why are these Chocolate Revel Bars a must-try?
Decadent, Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate fudge melds beautifully with a buttery oatmeal base, creating a heavenly balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and store them for later, ensuring a sweet treat is always within reach!
Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or swap ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, whether you’re going gluten-free or simply looking for a twist on the classic.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike, sparking nostalgia with every bite.
Simplicity in Preparation: The straightforward process makes baking these bars accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers. If you enjoyed these, consider trying other delightful options such as Ingredient Bake Bars or Chocolate Chip Cheesecake!
Chocolate Revel Bars Ingredients
Here’s what you need to whip up these delightful Chocolate Revel Bars!
For the Oat Base
- Quick Cooking Oatmeal – Provides a crumbly texture; opt for certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Powder – Helps the bars rise slightly for a lighter texture.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- Butter (Room Temperature) – Adds richness; for dairy-free, you can use vegan butter.
- Packed Brown Sugar – Ensures a sweet, deep flavor; light brown sugar makes a milder alternative.
- Eggs (Room Temperature) – Binds ingredients and contributes to the chewy texture; flax eggs work for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic flavor into both the dough and fudge layer.
For the Fudge Layer
- Chocolate Chips – Creates a luscious, gooey filling; semi-sweet is recommended, but dark works well too for deeper richness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Gives the fudge its creamy consistency, making these Chocolate Revel Bars truly decadent.
- Additional Butter (for Fudge Layer) – Enhances the smoothness of the fudge layer.
- Chopped Nuts (Optional) – Adds crunch and balances sweetness; pecans or walnuts are fantastic choices!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Revel Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking your Chocolate Revel Bars evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your 9 x 13 inch baking pan and lightly grease it to prevent sticking, setting the stage for the delicious bars to come.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the quick cooking oatmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This blend forms the essential dry foundation for your bars. Be sure to mix thoroughly until combined; this will help distribute the leavening and flavor throughout your Chocolate Revel Bars, resulting in a lovely texture once baked.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room-temperature butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once incorporated, crack in the eggs and add vanilla extract, blending everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently stir the dry ingredient mixture into the creamy butter mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients together just until combined; avoid overmixing to retain the delightful crumbly texture. Your batter for the Chocolate Revel Bars should look slightly thick and cohesive, ready for the next delicious layer to be added.
Step 5: Prepare the Fudge Layer
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and additional butter together. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and completely melted, taking care not to let it scorch. If you’d like to include optional nuts for added crunch, stir them in as you take the fudge off the heat. This rich fudge is the highlight of your Chocolate Revel Bars.
Step 6: Assemble Bars
Take half of your oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan. This creates a sturdy base for your layers. Next, pour the creamy fudge layer over the oat base, spreading it evenly. Finally, crumble the remaining oat mixture over the fudge, ensuring all areas are covered to form a lovely crust on top of the Chocolate Revel Bars.
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Place the assembled bars in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want the center to be set but still soft enough for that gooey fudge interior in the Chocolate Revel Bars.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial; letting them cool fully ensures easier cutting into squares. After cooling, you can enjoy them immediately or wrap them tightly to freeze for later indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Revel Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep that saves you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the oat base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, the fudge layer can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply melt the chocolate mixture and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the prepped components, layer them in your pan, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, delicious Chocolate Revel Bars at your convenience, just as tempting as the day they were made!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Chocolate Revel Bars?
These heavenly bars create a cozy, irresistible dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the cool, creamy ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm, gooey fudge. Scoop some on top for a delightful treat.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a pop of freshness and a hint of tartness, balancing the rich chocolate flavors wonderfully.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate, making this duo a go-to for dessert lovers. Enjoy a warm cup alongside the bars for a cozy feel.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the bars takes indulgence to a new level. The sweet, buttery sauce complements the oat base beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely texture that elevates the entire dessert experience.
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Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: For those who can’t get enough oatmeal, pair with these chewy cookies for a delightful double dose of flavor and texture.
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Milkshake: For a fun twist, blend up a chocolate milkshake. It creates a playful pairing that will delight kids and adults alike.
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Chocolate Milk: Go for classic nostalgia by serving with a tall glass of chocolate milk. It’s a sweet complement that transports you back to childhood.
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Mocha Brownies: For the chocolate enthusiasts, serving these bars with rich mocha brownies creates an irresistible chocolate lovers’ paradise.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Revel Bars
Room Temperature: Store cooled Chocolate Revel Bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Enjoy them at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer bar, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in portions, using wax paper between layers. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months, allowing you to indulge in chocolatey goodness anytime.
Reheating: If you want a warm treat, simply microwave a frozen bar for about 20-30 seconds before enjoying.
Chocolate Revel Bars Variations
Indulge your creativity and make these bars your own with some delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these bars without gluten.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and flavor dimension. Nuts bring a wonderful texture contrast that makes each bite memorable.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth; these spices complement the chocolate beautifully and add a cozy touch.
- Caramel Surprise: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the fudge layer before adding the oat topping for a gooey twist. The interplay of chocolate and caramel creates a rich flavor explosion.
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Replace half of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a deliciously nutty twist. This unexpected shift will take your bars to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Mix and Match Chips: Use a combination of dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate chips for a flavor variety that’s simply irresistible. Experimenting with different chocolates can lead to delightful surprises!
- Vegan Variation: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based butter for a completely vegan option without sacrificing flavor. These adjustments keep the essence of the bars while accommodating dietary needs.
Once you’ve tried these variations, you’ll see how versatile and fun baking can be! For more delightful treats, check out my Ingredient Bake Bars or Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Revel Bars
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature for optimal creaming, which creates a light, fluffy batter for your Chocolate Revel Bars.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the mixtures, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the desired crumbly texture.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them maintain their shape and ensures a pleasant, chewy consistency.
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Experiment with Chocolates: Try different chocolate chips—dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate—for unique flavor profiles in your Chocolate Revel Bars.
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Storage Solutions: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze with wax paper between layers for delicious bars whenever a craving strikes!
Chocolate Revel Bars Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure my oats are the right consistency for the Chocolate Revel Bars?
For the best results, use quick cooking oatmeal as it provides the perfect crumbly texture for the oat base. If you can, opt for certified gluten-free oats if you are preparing gluten-free Chocolate Revel Bars. Avoid using old-fashioned rolled oats as they produce a denser texture that may not hold together as nicely.
What is the best way to store Chocolate Revel Bars?
Store your cooled Chocolate Revel Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a firmer texture, consider refrigerating them, where they will stay fresh for about 2 weeks. If you prefer longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months using wax paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
Can I freeze Chocolate Revel Bars? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Revel Bars, cut them into squares and place a piece of wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking. Then, store them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly or dry?
If you find your Chocolate Revel Bars are too crumbly, it might be due to overmixing the dry ingredients or inappropriate measurements. Be sure to measure your flour and oatmeal accurately; using a kitchen scale can help. If it happens, try adding a bit of milk or additional sweetened condensed milk to bring the mixture together next time.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of with these bars?
Yes, since the Chocolate Revel Bars contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and nuts, be sure to check with your guests or family members. You can easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs, such as using flax eggs for a vegan option or substituting vegan butter. Always ensure that any nuts used are safe for those with allergies.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Chocolate Revel Bars?
To take your Chocolate Revel Bars to the next level, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. You could also swap chocolate chips for butterscotch, peanut butter, or even white chocolate for a delightful twist. Be creative—you’re bound to uncover a combination that your family will love!
Decadent Chocolate Revel Bars: A Sweet Nostalgic Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together quick cooking oatmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In a large bowl, beat room-temperature butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and blend until smooth.
- Gently stir the dry ingredient mixture into the creamy butter mixture until just combined.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and additional butter until smooth. Stir in optional nuts if desired.
- Press half of the oat mixture into the greased pan, pour the fudge layer on top, and crumble remaining oat mixture over fudge.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
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