Congo Bars 🍫🥜
Chewy, nutty, chocolatey bars that are perfect for snacks, dessert, or lunchboxes
Congo Bars are a classic oat and coconut bar with a layer of chocolate and nuts—rich, chewy, and surprisingly easy to make.
🧾 Ingredients (9×13-inch pan)
Base & Filling
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1 cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 cups light brown sugar, packed
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4 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp salt
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2 cups rolled oats
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1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
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1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven
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350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
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Mix wet ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
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Add eggs, one at a time, and then vanilla extract.
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Combine dry ingredients
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In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually stir into wet mixture.
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Add oats, coconut, nuts, and chocolate
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Fold until evenly combined.
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Bake
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Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Bake 30–35 minutes, until golden and set (toothpick should come out mostly clean).
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Cool & cut
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Let cool completely in pan.
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Cut into bars and serve.
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🌟 Pro Tips
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Chewier bars: Slightly underbake by 2–3 minutes
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Nut-free version: Skip nuts or replace with sunflower seeds
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Chocolate swirl: Add extra chocolate on top before baking for a melty layer
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Storage: Airtight container at room temp 4–5 days or freeze for 2–3 months
🔄 Variations
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Caramel Congo Bars: Drizzle caramel over top before baking
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Tropical: Add dried pineapple or mango pieces
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Healthier twist: Use coconut oil instead of butter and reduce sugar slightly
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Snack with coffee, tea, or milk
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Packable dessert for lunchboxes
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Cut into small squares for parties or gatherings