why make this recipe
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delicious treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. They are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These bars are not only tasty but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a great snack option. Plus, they are simple to prepare, with ingredients that are often found in your pantry.
how to make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Heaping 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour
- 2 1/2 tablespoons maca powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups walnuts
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 10 soft medjool dates
- 2 tablespoons water
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top (optional)
Directions:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Add the almond flour and maca powder, stirring until the mixture becomes thick. Fold in the chocolate chips and press the mixture into the lined pan. Place in the freezer while you prepare the next layer.
- In a small food processor, chop the walnuts, cacao powder, and sea salt until finely chopped. Add the dates and pulse to combine, adding the 2 tablespoons of water if needed. Process until smooth, then spread this mixture onto the cookie layer. Sprinkle with sea salt if you like.
- Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up. After freezing, remove from the pan and slice into bars. Store any leftover bars in the fridge or freezer. Let them thaw for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving.
how to serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
These cookie bars are great as a snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast on the go. You can serve them plain, or with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They can also be enjoyed with fresh fruit for a more balanced treat.
how to store Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
You can store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months.
tips to make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Make sure to use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture.
- If you prefer a crunchier bar, chop the walnuts coarsely and mix in.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.
variation
You can substitute almond flour with other nut flours or oats if you prefer. Adding different nuts like pecans or adding dried fruits can also change the flavor profile of the bars.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the bars.
What can I use instead of coconut oil?
You can substitute coconut oil with any neutral oil like canola oil or melted butter.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, they are gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free almond flour and check other ingredients for any gluten.
