Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Chocolate Mud Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, fudgy chocolate treats. These bars feature a dense, brownie-like base, topped with a smooth, gooey chocolate ganache layer that makes them truly decadent. Perfect for a party, potluck, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these chocolate mud bars are easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Ganache Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to help lift the bars out later.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined, then fold in the flour until no streaks remain.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake the Base
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
3. Make the Ganache Topping
- Heat Cream: In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then add the butter and whisk until smooth and glossy.
4. Assemble the Bars
- Pour Ganache: Pour the ganache over the cooled chocolate base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Place the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the ganache is set.
5. Slice and Serve
- Cut into Bars: Once the ganache is firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Notes
- Baking Time: Be careful not to overbake the base, as you want it to stay moist and fudgy. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- Chill for Clean Cuts: For cleaner cuts, chill the bars thoroughly before slicing. Wipe the knife clean between cuts to keep the edges sharp.
Variations
- Nutty Mud Bars: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the base for a nutty crunch.
- Espresso Chocolate Mud Bars: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a deep, mocha flavor.
- Salted Chocolate Mud Bars: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the ganache for a sweet and salty contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Chocolate Mud Bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor and texture get even better after a day or two!
How do I store leftover Chocolate Mud Bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Chocolate Mud Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter ganache. Adjust the cream to 1/2 cup instead of 3/4 cup to achieve the right consistency, as milk chocolate is softer than semisweet or dark chocolate.
What can I serve with Chocolate Mud Bars?
These bars are delicious on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Chocolate Mud Bars are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With their dense, fudgy base and rich chocolate ganache topping, these bars are perfect for any special occasion or when you need a decadent chocolate fix. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Try this recipe for a rich and delicious treat, and let the chocolate melt in your mouth!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
