Chocolate Revel Bars Recipe

Butter: Provides richness and moisture to the bars.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough, giving it structure.

Baking soda: Helps the dough rise and become light and chewy.

Quick-cooking oats: Adds texture and a slight nutty flavor to the bars.

Sweetened condensed milk: Creates a creamy, sweet filling for the chocolate layer.

Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted to form the rich chocolate filling.

Walnuts: Optional, but they add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the bars.

When preparing the oat mixture, ensure that the butter is thoroughly softened to achieve a creamy consistency when beaten with the brown sugar. This will help in evenly incorporating the flour and oats, resulting in a uniform base and topping. Additionally, when melting the chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk and butter, use a low heat setting to prevent the chocolate from seizing. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy before adding the vanilla extract and optional walnuts. This ensures a rich, even chocolate layer that complements the chewy oat base.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter in baking, providing a similar texture and moisture content.

• brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar and molasses: Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses to create a similar flavor and moisture level as brown sugar.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the bars.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This works well as a binding agent in baking.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the bars denser.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 teaspoons of baking powder for every teaspoon of baking soda, but note that this may slightly alter the texture.

• quick-cooking oats - Substitute with old-fashioned oats: Old-fashioned oats can be used but may result in a chewier texture.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with evaporated milk and sugar: Mix 1 cup of evaporated milk with 1 ¼ cups of sugar to mimic the sweetness and consistency.

• semi-sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used to add a subtle coconut flavor and maintain the moisture content.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different but pleasant sweetness and depth of flavor.

• chopped walnuts - Substitute with chopped pecans: Pecans offer a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.

• Allow the Chocolate Revel Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This ensures they set properly and are easier to handle.

• Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes. Use a sharp knife to get clean edges.

• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• If you prefer to refrigerate, place the bars in an airtight container, again layering with parchment paper. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This method keeps them firmer and extends their shelf life.

• For freezing, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Label with the date for easy tracking.

• The bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• To serve warm, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften the chocolate layer and make them gooey and delicious.

• Always ensure the bars are stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chocolate revel bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the bars loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a chocolate revel bar on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the bar with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check the temperature and continue to heat in 10-second intervals if needed.
  5. Let it cool for a moment before eating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chocolate revel bars on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover the bars with aluminum foil to prevent them from becoming too crispy.
  4. Heat for about 8-10 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the chocolate revel bars in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overheat.
  4. Let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Add the chocolate revel bars to the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to help retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for baking the bars.

• Baking pan: Use a 9x13 inch pan to bake the bars.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to mix the butter, sugar, vanilla, and eggs.

• Separate bowl: Another bowl to combine the flour and baking soda.

• Electric mixer: To beat the butter and sugar until creamy.

• Spatula: For stirring in the oats and spreading the chocolate mixture.

• Saucepan: To melt the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter.

• Measuring cups: For measuring the flour, oats, and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: For measuring the vanilla extract and baking soda.

• Wire rack: To cool the bars in the pan after baking.

• Knife: For cutting the cooled bars into pieces.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This reduces prep time and ensures a smooth cooking process.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the butter and brown sugar together using a food processor to save time.

Melt chocolate in microwave: Instead of using a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.

Cool quickly: Place the baking pan on a cooling rack near an open window or fan to speed up the cooling process.