Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
Indulging in a delicious dessert doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health or dietary preferences. These Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars are a perfect example of how you can enjoy a sweet treat without any guilt. They are incredibly easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. Imagine a chewy, nutty base studded with chocolate chips that melt in your mouth. Whether you need a quick snack, a dessert for a gathering, or a lunchbox treat, these bars have got you covered!
Reasons to Love Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
There are countless reasons to adore these bars:
– Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have these bars ready in no time.
– Nutritious Ingredients: Using peanut butter along with applesauce or yogurt adds healthy fats and moisture without the need for excessive oils or butter.
– Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences.
– Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is simply irresistible, making these bars a crowd-pleaser.
– Perfect for Meal Prep: They store well, making them ideal for pre-prepared snacks throughout the week.
Your Shopping Guide
To make these delectable Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars, here’s what you’ll need to grab from your local grocery store:
- 1/4 cup applesauce or coconut milk yogurt: This will add moisture and sweetness.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Choose your favorite brand or opt for a nut-free alternative like sunbutter if you have allergies.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: For a delightful aroma and flavor.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the bars rise.
- 1/8 tsp salt: To enhance the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp flour: You can choose from spelt, white, sorghum, oat, almond, or buckwheat flour.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Feel free to use your preferred sweetener, such as xylitol.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips: Optional, but highly recommended for that chocolatey goodness.
- Up to 2 tbsp milk of choice: Only use if the batter needs thinning.
Hardware & Gadgets
Before you begin baking, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing all your ingredients together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Spatula: Great for mixing and scraping down the sides of your bowl.
- Baking Dish: A 9×9 inch square pan works perfectly for these bars.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first when taking your delicious bars out of the oven!
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease your 9×9 inch baking dish with a little coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce or yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, add the flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them gently into the batter for an extra burst of sweetness.
Step 6: Pour and Spread
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
These bars are versatile, and you can make them fit your dietary needs by considering these alternatives:
- Peanut Butter: Use sunbutter or tahini for a nut-free version.
- Flour: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol.
- Chocolate Chips: Use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly option.
Avoid These Mistakes
To ensure your Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to dense bars.
- Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check your bars a few minutes before the suggested time.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), here’s how to store them:
These Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Common Qs About Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Just use a plant-based yogurt instead of applesauce and dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely vegan dessert.
What can I substitute for peanut butter?
You can use sunbutter for a nut-free option or any other nut butter you prefer, like almond or cashew butter.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of jam for an extra flavor boost.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for a golden-brown edge and use a toothpick to test the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
If you love these bars, you might also want to try out these delicious recipes:
Let’s Eat
Now that you have your Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars ready to go, gather your friends and family to share in the joy of these scrumptious treats. They’re perfect for a cozy night in, a picnic, or just a sweet indulgence after a long day. Enjoy every chewy, chocolatey bite, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media!
These Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars will quickly become a favorite in your home, proving that healthy can be delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and treat yourself!
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Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Step 2: Grease your 9x9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce or yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Step 5: Fold in the chocolate chips gently into the batter.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Step 8: Let cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely and slice into squares.
Notes
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
