Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares
Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares are the ultimate indulgence that combines creamy peanut butter, rich dark chocolate, and wholesome oats into a delightful treat that can satisfy your sweet cravings while also being nutritious. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these squares are easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout bite or a sweet treat to share with friends, this recipe will not disappoint.
Why It Deserves a Spot
These Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares deserve a prime spot in your recipe collection for several reasons. First, the combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that is both decadent and comforting. The wholesome oats add a chewy texture that complements the smoothness of the peanut butter and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. Additionally, these squares are incredibly versatile; you can enjoy them as a pre-or post-workout snack, a dessert, or even breakfast if you’re feeling adventurous! Plus, they are quick to prepare and require no baking, making them a hassle-free option for busy days.
Shopping List
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth, natural)
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (virgin)
- 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 10 ounces dark chocolate chips (bag or semisweet)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (unrefined, virgin)
Appliances & Accessories
- Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Spatula: To help in mixing and spreading the mixture into the pan.
- 9×9 inch baking dish: The perfect size for these squares.
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Begin by lining your 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will make cutting the squares a breeze and keep them from sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Coconut Oil and Peanut Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and 1/2 cup of virgin coconut oil. You can melt them together in a double boiler or microwave until they are smooth and well-combined. Stir carefully to ensure they mix evenly.
Step 3: Sweeten It Up
Add the honey or maple syrup and the vanilla extract to the melted peanut butter and coconut oil mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. The mixture should have a glossy appearance.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, kosher salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until all the oats are coated and everything is well mixed.
Step 5: Press into the Pan
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly, ensuring there are no gaps. This will help the squares hold together once set.
Step 6: Melt the Dark Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of unrefined virgin coconut oil. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Top the Squares
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring all the oats are covered with a luscious layer of chocolate.
Step 8: Chill
Refrigerate the squares for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has completely set. This step is crucial for ensuring they hold their shape when cut.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Once the chocolate is firm, lift the squares out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or bars of your desired size. Enjoy your Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares!
Substitutions by Diet
- Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Nut-free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Gluten-free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
- Lower sugar: Reduce the amount of honey or syrup and add mashed bananas for natural sweetness.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Not pressing the oat mixture firmly enough into the pan can result in crumbly squares.
- Using chocolate that is not suitable for melting will lead to a grainy texture.
- Skipping the refrigeration step will make the squares too soft to cut neatly.
- Using cold ingredients can cause the coconut oil to harden, resulting in an uneven mixture.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Store your Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying, or you can microwave them for a few seconds to get that melty chocolate goodness back.
Handy Q&A
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the squares, making them even more enjoyable.
What can I use if I don’t have coconut oil?
You can substitute coconut oil with unsalted butter or any neutral oil like avocado oil. However, this may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I know when the squares are set?
The chocolate topping should be firm to the touch, and the squares should hold their shape when you cut into them. If they are still soft, give them more time in the refrigerator.
Can I add extras like nuts or dried fruit?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the oat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
One Pan, More Ideas
- Healthy No-Bake Energy Bites
- Easy Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls
- 5-Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark
- Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies
Make It Tonight
Now that you have this delightful recipe for Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares, there’s no reason to wait! Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps laid out, and treat yourself to a batch of these delicious squares. With their rich flavor, nutritious ingredients, and ease of preparation, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy them fresh from the fridge, packed for lunch, or as a post-dinner treat — they’re perfect for any occasion!
Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares are not just a recipe; they are a delicious way to embrace wholesome ingredients while indulging your sweet tooth. So why not indulge today? Grab your mixing bowl and get started on these delightful squares!
Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Pan - Begin by lining your 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will make cutting the squares a breeze and keep them from sticking.
- Step 2: Melt the Coconut Oil and Peanut Butter - In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and 1/2 cup of virgin coconut oil. You can melt them together in a double boiler or microwave until they are smooth and well-combined. Stir carefully to ensure they mix evenly.
- Step 3: Sweeten It Up - Add the honey or maple syrup and the vanilla extract to the melted peanut butter and coconut oil mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. The mixture should have a glossy appearance.
- Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients - In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, kosher salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until all the oats are coated and everything is well mixed.
- Step 5: Press into the Pan - Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly, ensuring there are no gaps. This will help the squares hold together once set.
- Step 6: Melt the Dark Chocolate - In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of unrefined virgin coconut oil. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7: Top the Squares - Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring all the oats are covered with a luscious layer of chocolate.
- Step 8: Chill - Refrigerate the squares for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has completely set. This step is crucial for ensuring they hold their shape when cut.
- Step 9: Cut and Serve - Once the chocolate is firm, lift the squares out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or bars of your desired size. Enjoy your Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares!
Notes
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan for best results.
