While the original WWII D Ration was designed as an emergency survival ration, most people today aren't looking for a chocolate bar that's intentionally difficult to eat. This modern recreation keeps the dense, calorie-rich spirit of the original while producing a bar that's considerably more enjoyable for hiking, camping, emergency kits, or simply experiencing a piece of military history without breaking your teeth.

Rather than strictly recreating Hershey's wartime formula, this version uses modern pantry ingredients to improve flavor, texture, and ease of preparation while still maintaining the dense, satisfying character of the famous Logan Bar.

Recipe Information

Yield: 6 bars

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Cooling Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (240 g) oat flour

• ½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ cup (75 g) nonfat dry milk powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• You can check out additional supplements for these bars here: How to Enhance Homemade D Ration Chocolate Bars

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup (170 g) honey

• ⅓ cup (100 g) light corn syrup

• 4 tablespoons (56 g) cocoa butter (or unsalted butter)

  • If using cocoa butter, make sure you buy food-grade, as cocoa butter is normally sold as a non-edible cosmetic.

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2–4 tablespoons hot water (only if needed)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan

• Mixing bowl

• Silicone spatula

• Kitchen scale (recommended)

• Silicone bar molds or parchment-lined pan

Step 1 – Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine the oat flour, cocoa powder, powdered milk, and salt in a large bowl.

Whisk until evenly distributed.

Step 2 – Prepare the Syrup

In a saucepan over low heat combine:

• Honey

• Corn syrup

• Cocoa butter

Heat gently until completely melted.

Do not boil.

Step 3 – Form the Dough

Pour the warm syrup into the dry ingredients.

Mix thoroughly.

The mixture should resemble a thick brownie dough.

If necessary, add hot water one tablespoon at a time until everything comes together.

Step 4 – Shape

Transfer to molds or a parchment-lined pan.

Compress firmly.

Although softer than the WWII version, pressing the mixture tightly improves texture and shelf life.

Step 5 – Chill

Refrigerate for about two hours.

Once firm, remove and cut into bars.

Storage

Wrap individually in parchment or wax paper.

Store inside an airtight container.

For maximum freshness:

• Pantry: up to 2–3 months

• Refrigerator: up to 6 months

• Freezer: about 1 year

Expected Texture

Unlike the WWII D Ration, this version is:

• Firm but chewable

• Rich chocolate flavor

• Mild sweetness

• Dense and filling

• Similar to an energy bar or protein bar

Approximate Nutrition (Per Bar)

• Calories: 500–650

• Protein: 10–14 g

• Fat: 20–28 g

• Carbohydrates: 60–75 g

Modern vs. Historical D Ration

Although inspired by the famous WWII emergency ration, this recipe intentionally sacrifices some historical authenticity in exchange for better flavor and easier preparation.

Shelf Life Comparison

One of the biggest differences between the two recipes is longevity.

Historical Recreation

The historical version contains almost no free moisture and relies on cocoa butter, sugar, oat flour, and powdered milk. Properly stored in a cool, dry environment, it can remain edible for many months and potentially over a year, although the fats will eventually become rancid.

Estimated Shelf Life

• Pantry: 6–12 months

• Vacuum sealed: 1–2 years

• Frozen: Several years

Modern Recreation

The modern recipe introduces honey, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and small amounts of water, making it much more enjoyable to eat but shortening its storage life.

Estimated Shelf Life

• Pantry: 2–3 months

• Refrigerator: Up to 6 months

• Frozen: About 1 year

Pros & Cons

Historical Recreation

Pros

• Closest to what WWII soldiers carried

• Extremely durable

• Excellent heat resistance

• Longer shelf life

• Fascinating historical experience

Cons

• Difficult to bite

• Bitter flavor

• Time-consuming to make

• Not ideal as an everyday snack

Modern Recreation

Pros

• Better chocolate flavor

• Easer to chew

• Family friendly

• Great hiking snack

• Simpler ingredients

• Easier to prepare

Cons

• Less historically accurate

• Softer in warm weather

• Shorter shelf life

• Slightly less calorie dense

Which Recipe Should You Choose?

If you're a military history enthusiast, reenactor, collector, or simply want to experience one of America's most iconic wartime rations, the Historical Recreation is the clear choice. It closely mirrors the texture, ingredients, and purpose of the original Logan Bar.

If you're looking for a practical survival snack, hiking ration, or a chocolate bar inspired by history but designed for modern tastes, the Modern Recreation is the better option. It captures the spirit of the original while being far more enjoyable to eat.