Fudge Brownie Bars

Ever had one of those days when no matter how much you do you can’t seem to get ahead? I know I have. Those days are hard, and it can help if I stop for a cup of tea and a bit of indulgence like a cookie or a brownie to unfrazzle my nerves. Sometimes, though, not even a brownie is quite a match for the workload and stresses we face. Some days call for more, like a batch of these three layer Fudge Brownie Bars. One of these little delights can take you on a mini-vacation away from whatever you want to leave behind, just close your eyes and take a bite.

Print Recipe

Fudge Brownie Bars

First layer
3/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg yolk
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

Second layer
1 package fudge brownie mix (9 x 13-inch pan size)
1 egg
1/3 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil

Frosting
1 (11.5 ounce) package milk chocolate chips, melted
3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan by greasing.
First layer: In a large bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla. Add flour and stir until combined. Press dough evenly into the bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 15 – 18 minutes or until golden brown.
Second layer: In a large bowl, combine brownie mix, egg, water, and oil. Stir until combined. Spread this mixture over the hot first layer. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
Third layer: Melt chocolate chips in a microwave oven. Stir until smooth. Spread chocolate over cooled second layer. Sprinkle with nuts, if desired. Cool, then cut into bars.