Step back in time to the 1950s and discover a vintage treat that has stood the test of decades. These “jungle bars” bring together rich brown sugar, aromatic spices, crunchy walnuts, and sweet chocolate chips into a satisfying, chewy bar. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple afternoon snack, they disappear quickly wherever they’re shared. Enjoy them slightly warm for maximum comfort. Better yet, top a freshly baked bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and savor a dessert that bridges nostalgia and indulgence in every bite.
These jungle bars are a classic retro favorite—soft, flavorful squares that blend wholesome ingredients with timeless charm. The hint of cardamom adds a unique fragrance, while walnuts and chocolate chips bring texture and sweetness. Whether you’re rediscovering an old family memory or trying them for the first time, expect a comforting taste that feels both familiar and delightfully new.
Ingredients For jungle bars
- 2 3/4 cups (about 360 g) organic all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp (about 12 g) baking powder
- 1/2 tsp (about 2.5 g) salt
- 1 tsp (about 2 g) cardamom
- 2 1/4 cups (about 450 g) packed brown sugar
- 3 eggs, slightly beaten (about 150 g total)
- 2/3 cup (about 160 ml) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp (about 5 ml) pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (about 115 g) walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup (about 170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
How To Make jungle bars
- Gather all ingredients before starting. Prepare one large, one medium, and one small mixing bowl. Preheat the oven to 325°F (about 165°C). Grease a 10 x 15 x 1 inches (about 25 x 38 x 3 centimeters) baking pan well.
- In the large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom.
- In the medium bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vanilla. Stir well with a wooden spoon until blended.
- In the small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
- Add the dry flour mixture from the large bowl into the medium bowl with the butter and sugar mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips until evenly distributed. The dough will be stiff.
- Transfer the stiff dough into the greased baking pan.
- Butter your hands and press the dough evenly across the pan, reaching all corners.
- Bake at 325°F (165°C) for about 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a rack before cutting into 24 bars.
- Serve warm. For an extra-special dessert, top a warm jungle bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
As you bite into these fragrant, chewy jungle bars, embrace the comforting reminder that great recipes can transcend generations. Their unique combination of flavors and textures brings back the warmth of old-fashioned baking, adapted seamlessly for today’s kitchen. Share them with loved ones or enjoy them in quiet solitude, knowing each bite connects you to a simpler, more nostalgic era—one where good food and good company always come first.
