Congo Bars
Introduction
Congo Bars are classic, old-fashioned dessert bars that are rich, chewy, and incredibly easy to make.
Often described as a blondie’s sweeter cousin, these bars are loaded with brown sugar flavor and studded
with chocolate chips for the perfect balance of gooey and soft. They’re a timeless treat that comes together
quickly and never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
Description
Congo Bars are thick, chewy, and packed with deep caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar.
The interior stays soft and slightly gooey, while the top develops a light golden crust.
Every bite is filled with melty chocolate chips, making these bars a comforting and indulgent dessert.
Tips
- For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the bars and let them set as they cool.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
- Mix different types of chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Chill before slicing for neat, bakery-style bars.
Correction
- If bars turn out dry, reduce baking time by 3–5 minutes.
- If the center sinks, avoid overmixing and ensure baking powder is fresh.
- If edges bake too quickly, loosely cover with foil near the end.
Enjoy
Enjoy Congo Bars with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or topped with vanilla ice cream.
These bars store well and taste even better the next day—perfect for sharing or treating yourself!
