Congo Bars Recipe: How to Make This Chewy, Chocolate-Studded Classic

How to Make Congo Bars Step by Step

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Lining the pan makes removal and slicing much easier later.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

This step is key—fully dissolving the brown sugar helps create that signature chewy texture.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the flour, baking powder, and salt over the wet mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the bars tough.

4. Fold in the Mix-Ins

Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using. The batter will be thick but spreadable.

5. Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Do not overbake—Congo Bars continue to set as they cool.

6. Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing. This ensures clean edges and the perfect chewy interior.

Tips for Perfect Congo Bars

Use all brown sugar for the richest flavor—light or dark both work
Melted butter, not softened butter, gives the bars their dense texture
Slightly underbake for extra chewiness
Rest overnight for even better flavor and structure

Easy Variations to Try

One of the best things about Congo Bars is how adaptable they are:

Peanut Butter Congo Bars – Swirl peanut butter into the batter before baking
White Chocolate & Cranberry – Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate and dried cranberries
Salted Caramel – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt
Espresso Boost – Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for deeper flavor

How to Store Congo Bars

Store Congo Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

Congo Bars are proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable desserts. With their chewy texture, buttery sweetness, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Once you make them, they’re bound to become a go-to recipe you return to again and again.