Classic Congo Bars

 

Congo Bars

Ingredients

Base

Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature

Brown sugar – 2 cups, firmly packed

Large eggs – 3, at room temperature

All-purpose flour – 2½ cups

Leavening & Flavor

Pure vanilla extract – 1 tablespoon

Baking powder – 2 teaspoons

Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon

Chocolate

Semi-sweet chocolate chunks – 1½ cups

Milk chocolate chips – 1 cup

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily after baking.

Lightly grease the parchment and exposed edges of the pan.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well blended.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.

Mix until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients and Chocolate

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, mixing just until incorporated.

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chunks and chocolate chips, taking care not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for about 30 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden while the center remains slightly soft.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, slice into clean, even squares.