Chocolate Cake Mix Bars

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these Chocolate Cake Mix Bars are exactly what you need. Combining the convenience of a cake mix with the rich, fudgy texture of bars, this recipe comes together quickly and yields a crowd-pleasing treat every time. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro looking for a simple dessert fix, these bars are perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or a cozy night in.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe takes the guesswork out of baking – by using a chocolate cake mix as the base, you get all the flavor and richness of a traditional chocolate dessert without the fuss. The result is a chewy, moist bar with a slightly crisp top that melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s versatile and forgiving, making it ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a quick sweet fix. The combination of just a few pantry staples means you can whip these up anytime you have a craving. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire!

Ingredients

• 1 box (about 15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (choose a dairy-free and egg-free variety if needed)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola or sunflower)
• 2 large eggs (or use egg replacer to suit dietary needs)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 cup chocolate chips (use dairy-free chocolate chips if preferred)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

How To Make Chocolate Cake Mix Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or nonstick spray. This ensures your bars will come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and water until fully combined. This mixture will provide moisture and richness to your bars.

Step 3: Combine the Cake Mix

Add the entire box of chocolate cake mix to the wet ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick but spreadable.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Fold in the chocolate chips and, if using, the chopped nuts. This adds texture and extra chocolatey goodness to every bite.

Step 5: Spread the Batter in the Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the surface is smooth to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The bars should have a slightly crisp top but remain chewy inside.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. This step helps them set and makes them easier to remove from the pan.

Expert Tips

• Use parchment paper for easy removal and less mess.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the bars tender and chewy.
• For extra fudginess, reduce the baking time slightly and check frequently.
• Feel free to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
• If you want to make these nut-free, just omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Variations and Customizations

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the batter and swirl with a knife before baking.
• Mint Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and use mint chocolate chips for a refreshing flavor.
• Mocha Bars: Stir in 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules into the wet ingredients for a coffee kick.
• Fruit and Nut: Mix in dried cherries or cranberries along with nuts for a fruity crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Chocolate Cake Mix Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix works best for a rich, chocolatey bar, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or red velvet for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile might change slightly.

What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use popular egg replacers such as flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or commercial egg replacers suitable for baking. This keeps the bars moist and binds the ingredients well.

Are these bars gluten-free?

These bars are not gluten-free by default because most cake mixes contain wheat flour. However, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make a gluten-free version.

Can I add frosting or drizzle on top?

Yes! For an extra special treat, try drizzling melted chocolate or a simple glaze over the cooled bars. You can also spread a layer of frosting or peanut butter on top for added richness.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cake Mix Bars are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch of chewy, chocolate-packed bars that everyone will love. Their versatility means you can customize them to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs with ease. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you coming back for more. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the magic of chocolatey goodness in every bite!