Sweet Tea Chili Garlic Bars (Print)
Tea-infused bars with chili garlic swirl, topped with fluffy cake and monster green glaze for adventurous flavor.
# Components:
→ Pancake Bar Base
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 1/2 cups strong brewed sweet tea, cooled
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Chili Garlic Swirl
11 - 3 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
12 - 1/4 cup honey
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Monster Cake Topping
14 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
15 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
16 - 1 large egg
17 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
18 - Green food coloring, optional
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar until thoroughly blended.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, brewed sweet tea, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully emulsified.
04 - Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Avoid overmixing for optimal texture.
05 - Transfer pancake batter into prepared pan. Smooth into an even layer.
06 - In a small bowl, mix chili garlic sauce, honey, and melted butter. Distribute dollops over batter and use a knife to gently swirl, creating a marbled effect.
07 - Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla, and food coloring (if using) until smooth. Drop spoonfuls atop batter and swirl for a monster swirl appearance.
08 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
09 - Allow bars to cool completely in pan before cutting into portions.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Inventive blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
- Perfect for both dessert tables and creative brunches.
02 -
- This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat (gluten).
- Chili garlic sauce may include soy; check labels for allergen details if store-bought.
03 -
- For a vibrant monster effect, swirl topping with bold strokes after adding food coloring.
- Let the bars cool fully for clean slicing and best texture.