If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, these Peanut Butter Passion Bars will surely win your heart. With a blend of creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a rich, sweet base, these bars are both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
Base and Topping
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup peanut butter
- 3/4 cup room-temperature diced butter
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking soda. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add the Butter:
- Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Create the Base:
- Press about 2/3 of this crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer. Reserve the remaining 1/3 for the topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Spread the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crumb base, spreading it evenly.
- Add Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chips:
- Drop dollops of peanut butter over the condensed milk layer, then sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top.
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Drizzle the vanilla extract over the entire mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the Remaining Crumb Mixture:
- Take the reserved crumb mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the filling.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish. This will allow them to set properly and make them easier to cut.
Step 6: Serve
- Cut and Serve:
- Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy these delicious Peanut Butter Passion Bars with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Nut Variations: Add chopped nuts such as peanuts, almonds, or pecans to the topping for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Variations: Use milk chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different taste.
- Peanut Butter Substitutes: Try using almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Additional Toppings: Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt over the top before baking for an extra indulgent touch.
Keto and Low Carb Version
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of the recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 3/4 cup erythritol or another low-carb sweetener
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sugar-free chocolate chips
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, erythritol, shredded coconut, salt, and baking soda.
- Add the Butter:
- Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Create the Base:
- Press about 2/3 of this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Spread the peanut butter evenly over the base, followed by sprinkling the sugar-free chocolate chips.
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Drizzle the vanilla extract over the filling.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, quick oats can be used, but they will give a slightly different texture. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats will make the bars softer.
Q: How do I store the Peanut Butter Passion Bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in place of the regular flour.
Q: What’s the best way to cut the bars without them falling apart?
A: Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting. Using a sharp knife, you can also refrigerate them for a few hours before cutting to make them firmer.
Q: Can I use a different nut butter?
A: Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives.
Peanut Butter Passion Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a chewy oat base. Whether you’re making the classic version or the keto-friendly option, these bars are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even a breakfast treat. Happy baking