Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars

If you’re looking for a delicious, wholesome treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt, these Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars are just what you need. Packed with protein and healthy fats, these bars are perfect for a quick snack, a post-workout pick-me-up, or even a delightful dessert. The combination of almond flour and creamy peanut butter creates a rich texture, while the chocolate chips add the perfect touch of sweetness. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

These Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars are not only easy to make, but they’re also incredibly versatile. The use of almond flour makes them gluten-free, while the peanut butter provides a boost of protein and flavor. The bars come together in just one bowl, and the baking process results in a chewy, satisfying texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible for everyone.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup unsweetened peanut butter
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar*
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups almond flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp sea salt**
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Cook’s Kit

• Mixing bowl: For blending the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements for perfect bars.
• Spatula: For mixing and spreading the batter into the baking dish.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch): The perfect size for these delightful bars.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking dish for easy removal.
• Oven mitts: Always a must for safe baking!

Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and unsweetened peanut butter. Using a spatula or electric mixer, cream the two together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla

Add the granulated sugar, eggs, and pure vanilla extract to the butter and peanut butter mixture. Mix until everything is thoroughly blended and creamy.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Spread in the Baking Dish

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice them into squares.

Dietary Customizations

• Nut-free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or any other nut-free spread.
• Lower sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia for a lower calorie option.
• Dairy-free: Replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg).

What Could Go Wrong

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to dense bars.
• Underbaking: Make sure to bake the bars long enough. If they are too soft in the center, they may fall apart when cooled.
• Using the wrong flour: Ensure you use almond flour and not almond meal, as the texture and moisture content differ.
• Burnt edges: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Popular Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-stirred and has a similar consistency to conventional peanut butter.

Can I substitute almond flour with another flour?

Almond flour is best for this recipe, but if you want to use another flour, consider almond meal or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary.

How can I make these bars more chocolatey?

If you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to add more chocolate chips or even swirl in some melted chocolate on top of the batter before baking.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even seeds to customize these bars to your liking.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Brownies
• Healthy Granola Bars
• Banana Bread

Final Bite

These Almond Flour Peanut Butter Bars make for a delightful snack that the whole family will love. With their rich and nutty flavor, they provide a perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence. Whether you enjoy them straight from the pan or pack them in your lunchbox, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!