Name: Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour (gluten-free alternative); 1/4 tsp salt (a pinch enhances flavor); 1/4 tsp baking soda (helps bars rise); 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (adds depth); 5 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey (or pinch of stevia); 5 1/2 tbsp water (only if using stevia); 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy); 1/2 cup chocolate chips (regular or sugar-free); 1-2 tsp oil (for smoother chocolate)

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If you’ve ever craved the delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient bar form, you’re in for a treat with these Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars. They bring all the nostalgia of your favorite childhood treats without any of the fuss. These bars are not only simple to whip up but also packed with flavor, making them an irresistible snack for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout treat or something sweet to enjoy with your coffee, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets these Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars apart from other dessert bars? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The base is made from almond flour, providing a nutty flavor and a delightful crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter layer. Topped with a rich chocolate layer, these bars are not only delicious but also customizable for your dietary needs. With a few simple swaps, you can make them nut-free or sugar-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.

Ingredient Notes

2 cups almond flour: This forms the base of the bars, offering a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour. For a nut-free version, feel free to use sunflower seed flour.
Just over 1/4 tsp salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors in both the crust and filling.
1/4 tsp baking soda: This helps the bars rise slightly, giving them a light texture.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Pinch uncut stevia OR 5 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey: These natural sweeteners provide the perfect amount of sweetness. Choose stevia for a low-calorie option.
Only if using stevia version, add 5 1/2 tbsp water: This thins out the mixture and keeps it moist.
1/2 cup peanut butter: The star ingredient! Use creamy or crunchy based on your preference. For allergies, substitute with sunflower seed butter.
1/2 cup chocolate chips: Choose regular or sugar-free chocolate chips to top the bars. For a smooth finish, select high-quality chocolate.
Optional 1-2 tsp oil: Adding a bit of oil to the chocolate can help create a smoother sauce.

Cook’s Kit

Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
9×9 inch baking dish: Perfect for setting your bars to cool and slice easily.
Spatula: Ideal for spreading the peanut butter layer evenly.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting your chocolate chips without burning them.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Directions: Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, salt, and baking soda. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In the same bowl, add the vanilla extract and your choice of sweetener (stevia, maple syrup, or honey). If you are using stevia, also add the water at this stage. Mix until the ingredients begin to come together.

Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter

Add the peanut butter to the mixture. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a little milk of your choice until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Use a spatula to mix everything together until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Base

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 15-18 minutes until it’s lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

While the bars are cooling, melt your chocolate chips. You can do this in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth. If you want a smoother chocolate sauce, mix in 1-2 teaspoons of oil.

Step 7: Assemble the Bars

Once the base is completely cool, pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or place the bars in the refrigerator for quicker results.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the bars from the baking dish using the parchment paper. Slice them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars with a cup of tea or coffee!

No-Store Runs Needed

Almond flour is a pantry staple for many, and can often be found in health food sections.
Peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that’s usually on hand in most households.
Maple syrup and honey are common sweeteners, perfect for this recipe.
If you don’t have chocolate chips, you can chop up a chocolate bar for a similar effect.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars while they’re in the oven to prevent them from drying out. They should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Chocolate seizing: When melting chocolate, ensure no water gets in. If it does, the chocolate will clump. Always use a dry bowl.
Sticky chocolate topping: If your chocolate is too thick, it may not spread well. Adding a bit of oil can help with consistency.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Peanut Butter Tagalong Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the chocolate to soften slightly, making them even more enjoyable.

Quick Q&A

Can I substitute almond flour with regular flour?

For this recipe, almond flour is essential for the texture and flavor. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed flour works well as a substitute.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

If you have a peanut allergy, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative that will still provide that rich, nutty flavor.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Use maple syrup as your sweetener and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips. This will keep the recipe entirely plant-based.

How can I make these bars lower in sugar?

Using stevia in place of traditional sweeteners significantly reduces the sugar content. Just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients accordingly.

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