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Homemade Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares photo

Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares

Indulge in these easy-to-make Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Squares! A nutritious, no-bake treat that satisfies your sweet cravings!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Squares:
  • 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)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • 9x9 inch baking dish
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.