Name: Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 large avocado; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or your favorite type)

If you’re a chocolate lover like me, you know that sometimes the most indulgent treats can feel a little too rich. That’s why I’m excited to share this recipe for Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy, gooey chocolate bar that’s not only delicious but also made with wholesome ingredients. The combination of chocolate cake mix and an avocado gives these bars a unique twist, adding creaminess and healthy fats without compromising on taste. Plus, they’re super simple to make, making them the perfect treat for any occasion!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. With a rich chocolate flavor, a gooey center, and a delightful crunch from the nuts, they are sure to impress both family and friends. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also make use of an unexpected ingredient—avocado! This fruit not only contributes to the texture but also boosts the nutritional value, making these bars a guilt-free dessert option. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket.

What You’ll Need

1 chocolate cake mix – The base of our gooey bars, providing that rich chocolate flavor.
1 large avocado – This creamy fruit will add moisture and healthy fats.
1 egg – Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk – This will give our bars that gooey texture we crave.
1 cup chocolate chips – For an extra burst of chocolate goodness.
1/2 cup chopped nuts – I used pecans for their rich flavor and crunch, but feel free to use your favorite type.

Equipment & Tools

Mixing bowl – To combine all our ingredients.
Fork or potato masher – For mashing the avocado until smooth.
9×9 inch baking pan – The perfect size for these gooey bars.
Parchment paper – Optional, but it will make removing the bars from the pan much easier.
Spatula – For spreading the batter evenly in the baking pan.

From Start to Finish: Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

If you’re using parchment paper, line your 9×9 inch baking pan with it, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. If you prefer, you can also grease the pan lightly.

Step 3: Mash the Avocado

In a mixing bowl, take your large avocado and mash it thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until it’s smooth and creamy. This will help to eliminate any lumps and ensure an even texture in your bars.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the chocolate cake mix, egg, and sweetened condensed milk to the mashed avocado. Stir everything together until well combined. The batter will be thick and rich, which is exactly what we want!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will add texture and make every bite even more delicious.

Step 6: Spread the Batter into the Pan

Using a spatula, spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be set but the center to remain gooey.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. If you used parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan using the paper overhang and let them cool on a wire rack. Once completely cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Make It Your Way

Feel free to customize your Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars with these variations:

Swap the Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or even leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.
Use Different Chips: Try using white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
Mix in Dried Fruit: Dried cherries or cranberries can add a nice tartness that balances the sweetness.

What Not to Do

When making these Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars, keep these tips in mind to ensure the best results:

Do not overmix your batter; this can result in tough bars instead of soft and gooey ones.
Avoid overbaking; keep an eye on the time and check for that perfect gooey center.
Do not skip the mashing of the avocado; lumps can affect the texture of your bars.
Don’t forget to let them cool before cutting; this helps them set and makes for cleaner slices.

Shelf Life & Storage

These Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as vanilla or red velvet, for a fun twist on these bars.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use a homemade version by blending milk and sugar, or opt for coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Are these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Just be sure to check the ingredients for any other non-gluten-free components.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a vegan brand of sweetened condensed milk or make your own.

See You at the Table

I hope you enjoy making and indulging in these Healthier Chocolate Gooey Cake Bars as much as I do. They’re perfect for an afternoon treat, a dessert for guests, or a satisfying snack anytime you need a chocolate fix. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to make them a hit at your table. Happy baking!