Moist Applesauce Cocoa Bars

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Moist Applesauce Cocoa Bars—a healthier spin on classic brownies that doesn’t skimp on flavor. These delectable bars are made with unsweetened applesauce, which not only reduces the need for excess oil but also guarantees an irresistibly moist texture in every bite. With just a hint of sweetness and the depth of unsweetened cocoa powder, these bars are perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions. Optional semi-sweet chocolate chips add bursts of melty decadence, making them a treat no one can resist! Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy bakers who crave homemade comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a chocolaty dessert with a lighter twist or simply want to make the most of pantry staples, these applesauce cocoa bars are the guilt-free treat you’ll come back to again and again.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 9

Ingredients

• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking soda
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.75 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.75 cup Applesauce (unsweetened preferred)
• 0.25 cup Vegetable oil
• 1 Large egg
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 4

Gradually add the dry ingredients from the medium bowl to the wet ingredients in the large bowl, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5

If using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8

Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares.

Step 9

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	806 grams (806.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2461

Total Fat 106.90g	137%
Saturated Fat 38.70g	194%
Polyunsaturated Fat 33.60g
Cholesterol 186mg	62%
Sodium 1296mg	56%
Total Carbohydrate 399.80g	145%
Dietary Fiber 56.10g	200%
Total Sugars 218.00g
Protein 50.80g	102%

Vitamin D 41IU	205%
Calcium 277mg	21%
Iron 30mg	166%
Potassium 2489mg	53%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.8%

Protein: 7.4%

Carbs: 57.8%