Handwritten recipe card for Nut Chocolate Bars from Mary
by: salvagedrecipes

Nut Chocolate Cookie Bars from Mary

Nut Chocolate Bars from Mary
These Nut Chocolate Bars from October 1974 are a chewy and rich dessert treat that combines the deep sweetness of brown sugar with the nutty crunch of chopped walnuts and a generous layer of chocolate chips. With a texture similar to a blondie, this bar cookie is easy to make and loved for its simplicity and comforting flavors. This recipe was originally handwritten on a cheerful folk-art style card, capturing the wholesome spirit of mid-century American baking. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual desserts, these bars evoke cozy kitchen memories with every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 24 bars
Calories 134 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ⅓ cup shortening
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 cup flour (sifted )
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ to 1 cup chocolate chips
  • ½ cup walnuts (chopped )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Cream together shortening and brown sugar.
  • Add egg and vanilla. Beat well.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add dry mixture to the creamed mixture and mix well.

Step 3: Add Mix-ins

  • Stir in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.

Step 4: Spread and Bake

  • Spread mixture in a greased 7″x11″ baking pan.
  • Bake in moderate oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 5: Finish

  • Cut into bars while warm. Makes 2 dozen.

Tips

  • Toast the walnuts first for a deeper nutty flavor.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, vintage-style twist.
  • Replace half the chocolate chips with butterscotch chips for variety.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for extra richness.
  • Add 2–3 tablespoons of shredded coconut for texture.
  • Use half butter and half shortening for a richer flavor.
  • Substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred.
  • Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and cutting.
  • Add a sprinkle of flaky salt on top before baking for a modern touch.
  • Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 pan for larger gatherings.

Nutrition

Calories: 134kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 21mgPotassium: 49mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword bars, chocolate, classic recipes, comfort food, cookies, easy baking, heirloom, vintage, walnuts
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!