If you love the cozy, nostalgic flavors of classic chocolate chip muffins but want something a little more fun and shareable, then you are going to absolutely adore this Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe. Combining the tender crumb of a muffin with the indulgent swirl of chocolate hazelnut spread, these bars bring together the best of both worlds in one gooey, crumbly, and downright irresistible treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re craving an afternoon snack or a sweet finish to dinner, these bars deliver comfort and decadence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step toward making these bars shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the muffin mix lending that soft, familiar crumb, to the butter bringing richness, and the chocolate hazelnut spread adding a luscious, nutty chocolate surprise that keeps you coming back for more.
- 2 Martha White Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix, 7oz packages: The foundation for our bars, this mix ensures a tender texture and just enough chocolate throughout.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds moisture and richness, creating that perfect crumbly base and topping.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together for a soft, cohesive dough.
- 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread: Brings creamy, nutty chocolate flavor that’s the star filling of this dessert.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your bars will lift out easily after baking — making slicing and serving a breeze!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine just the dry muffin mix, softened butter, and one egg. You can mix this with a wooden spoon, your hands, or a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. The goal is a soft, workable dough that holds together but isn’t too sticky.
Step 3: Form the Bottom Layer
Take half of your dough and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This layer acts as the sturdy but tender base of your bars, so pack it evenly for a delightful bite every time.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Spread the chocolate hazelnut spread evenly over the dough layer, but leave a little border (about half an inch) around the edges. This keeps the filling nicely enclosed once you add the crumb topping.
Step 5: Crumble and Top
Break up the remaining half of dough into crumb-sized pieces and scatter them all over the chocolate layer. Try to cover as much of the chocolate hazelnut spread as possible to get that signature crumb topping texture that makes this Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe so delightful.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the bars for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown. Once baked, it’s important to let them cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, try dusting the bars lightly with powdered sugar. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate or a bit of warm caramel across the top to create a stunning presentation that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
These bars are fantastic when paired with a cold glass of milk for dipping, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re serving them as a dessert. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add a fresh contrast to the rich chocolatey core.
Creative Ways to Present
To really impress guests, cut the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve on a decorative platter as part of a dessert buffet. Alternatively, sandwich two bars together with a layer of marshmallow fluff or peanut butter for a fun, portable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will maintain their fresh texture without drying out the crumb topping or the chocolate filling.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat frozen bars, thaw them at room temperature, then warm gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven until just heated through. This helps revive that freshly baked softness and melty chocolate goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different muffin mix for this Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Martha White Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix, you can experiment with other flavors or brands, but keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make these bars gluten-free?
To adapt for gluten-free diets, try using a gluten-free chocolate chip muffin mix. Just be sure that all other ingredients, like the chocolate hazelnut spread, are gluten-free as well.
Can I substitute the chocolate hazelnut spread with something else?
Yes! If you prefer, use peanut butter, almond butter with chocolate chips, or even jam for a different flavor twist. However, the chocolate hazelnut spread offers the iconic gooey, sweet nuttiness that makes this recipe special.
How thick should I press the bottom dough layer?
Press it evenly so it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the bottom hold together well without overwhelming the chocolate filling or crumb topping.
What’s the best way to cut these bars without crumbling?
Wait until the bars are completely cooled before cutting. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between slices will help you get nice, clean edges.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and fun about making the Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe that feels like a little celebration in your kitchen. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Once you try them, these bars will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation. So don’t wait — grab your ingredients and whip up a batch of these irresistible bars today!
Print
Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Chip Muffin Crumb Bars with a rich hazelnut spread layer, perfect for a sweet dessert or snack, especially served with a cold glass of milk.
Ingredients
Base Dough
- 2 Martha White Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix packages (7 oz each)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the dry muffin mix powder, softened butter, and one large egg. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon, your hands, or a mixer with the paddle attachment until a soft dough forms.
- Layer the Dough: Take half of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming a base layer. Then, spread the chocolate hazelnut spread over this dough layer, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges without spread.
- Crumble and Top: Crumble the remaining dough evenly on top of the hazelnut spread layer, covering it as much as possible to create a crumb topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the bars are cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is fully softened to blend easily with the muffin mix and egg for the best dough consistency.
- Parchment paper lining prevents sticking and makes bar removal much easier.
- Allow bars to cool completely to firm up and make cutting easier.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a nut-free option, substitute the chocolate hazelnut spread with any chocolate spread without nuts.
