Imagine a treat that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of dark chocolate with the creamy, irresistible allure of peanut butter - all packed into a quick, no-bake snack bar that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. These Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Snack Bars are not just a dessert; they're a moment of pure culinary bliss that will transform your snacking experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who craves a delectable treat, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive, sticky mixture forms.
- If using chopped nuts, fold them into the oat mixture for added texture and crunch.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula or clean hands to press it firmly and evenly into all corners.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help the base set and become more compact.
- Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Remove the pan from the refrigerator and pour the melted dark chocolate evenly over the oat base, using a spatula to spread it to the edges.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the chocolate for decoration and extra crunch.
- Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely set.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire bar out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 10 even bars using a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing and better ingredient incorporation.
- For a smoother chocolate layer, chop dark chocolate chips before melting to ensure even melting.
- If your mixture seems too dry, add a little extra honey to help bind the ingredients.
- Use a clean, sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for perfectly neat bar edges.
- For a protein boost, consider using natural peanut butter with no added sugars.
- Want extra crunch? Toast your chopped nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain their firm texture and prevent chocolate from melting.
- For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
