Name: Frosted Chocolate Fudge Pop Tart Bars.
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 sticks salted butter (at room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon salted butter (cubed); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3.2 ounces dark or milk chocolate (melted); Coarse salt or sugar (for sprinkling)

If you’re on the hunt for a decadent dessert that will take you back to your childhood while still satisfying adult cravings, look no further than these Frosted Chocolate Fudge Pop Tart Bars. Imagine a chewy, chocolatey crust filled with rich fudge and topped with a sweet, glossy frosting. These bars are perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself—trust me, you won’t want to share once you take a bite!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a play on the classic Pop Tart, but with a homemade twist that elevates the experience. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and cocoa powder creates a deep, rich chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet frosting. The dough is sturdy yet tender, making it the perfect envelope for the gooey fudge filling. Plus, each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures, from the soft bar to the glossy frosting and the sprinkle of coarse salt on top for that perfect finishing touch.

What We’re Using

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor to both the dough and the filling.
2/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream: Provides moisture and richness to the fudge filling.
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the fudge filling, creating that gooey texture.
1 tablespoon salted butter, cubed: Enhances flavor in the fudge filling.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic quality to both the dough and the filling.
2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature: Creates a tender, rich dough.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the chocolate.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving structure.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Compliments the chocolate in the filling and adds depth to the dough.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for the frosting, giving it that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: For an extra hit of chocolate in the frosting.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
3.2 ounces dark or milk chocolate, melted: Drizzled on top for a beautiful finish.
Coarse salt or sugar, for sprinkling: Adds a touch of elegance and contrast to the sweet frosting.

Recommended Tools

Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for these bars.
Spatula: To spread the fudge filling evenly.
Whisk: Great for mixing the frosting until smooth.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate safely.

The Method for Frosted Chocolate Fudge Pop Tart Bars.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature salted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Add in the egg and the first tablespoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Press the Dough into the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the pan evenly to form the base. Set aside the rest for the topping.

Step 4: Make the Fudge Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk (or heavy cream), semi-sweet chocolate chips, cubed butter, and the second tablespoon of vanilla extract. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until the chocolate and butter are melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Fill the Bars

Pour the fudge filling over the pressed dough in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Crumble the reserved dough over the top of the fudge filling, creating a rustic look.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is firm and set. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 7: Frost the Bars

Once the bars are cool, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and the final tablespoon of vanilla extract. Add a few tablespoons of water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars.

Step 8: Drizzle and Sprinkle

Melt the dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the frosted bars. Finish with a sprinkle of coarse salt or sugar for a beautiful and tasty touch.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and non-dairy butter for a vegan version.
Reduce the sugar in the frosting by using Greek yogurt for creaminess and tang.

What I Learned Testing

Letting the bars cool completely before frosting is crucial for a clean finish.
Adding a pinch of salt to the frosting enhances the chocolate flavor significantly.
Using a sharp knife to cut the bars yields cleaner edges, making them look more appealing.
Experimenting with different types of chocolate can yield unique flavor profiles!

Save It for Later

These Frosted Chocolate Fudge Pop Tart Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or refrigerate for an even longer shelf life. You can also freeze them for up to three months—simply thaw them when you’re ready for a sweet treat!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the fudge filling?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just remember that the sweetness may vary depending on the type of chocolate you choose.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What can I do if my fudge filling is too thick?

If your fudge filling is too thick, try adding a little more milk or cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape.

Bring It Home

With each bite of these Frosted Chocolate Fudge Pop Tart Bars, you’ll experience the nostalgia of childhood treats transformed into a gourmet dessert. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t forget to save some for yourself, because once you try them, you’ll want to indulge again and again! Enjoy the rich chocolatey goodness and the delightful texture of these bars that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Happy baking!