This Viral No-Bake Peanut Butter Bar Recipe Is Perfect For Weight Loss—And Gluten-Free
February 18, 2024 by Mariam Qayum
Indulging in sweet treats doesn’t have to compromise health, as evidenced by the growing popularity of nutritious alternatives. A prime example is the gluten-free and vegan no-bake peanut butter bar, a delightful option that not only satisfies cravings but also offers a healthier choice compared to its traditional counterparts. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this treat provides a guilt-free option for those seeking to manage their weight while still enjoying a delicious snack.
TikTok creator Jean Choi (@whatgreatgrandmaate), who boasts over 222K followers on the app and shares easy healthy recipes, shared her version of a no-bake peanut butter bar recipe that aligns with weight loss goals while satisfying sweet cravings.
Jean reveals that this recipe is perfect for those that “refuse to turn on the oven but you still have that sweet tooth.”
“Basically Reese’s cups in a bar form, with crunchy bites of chocolate chips in a velvety smooth filling, the ingredients are just super simple and easy. And they’re gluten-free and vegan friendly as well,” she notes.
Peanut butter and almond flour, the two main, wholesome ingredients here, not only enhance the flavor of sweet treats but also contribute to their nutritional value. Peanut butter is a rich source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients, providing a satiating element to sweet recipes. Almond flour, derived from ground almonds, adds a delightful nutty flavor and serves as a gluten-free alternative to traditional flours.
Moreover, almond flour is nutrient-dense, offering a good dose of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins.
The ingredients you’ll need for the recipe are: peanut butter (she says: “I recommend smooth creamy peanut butter, but you may use the crunchy kind if you don’t mind the texture. If you are grain free and/or paleo, you can always use almond butter instead”), maple syrup, coconut oil (“if you aren’t vegan, I love using ghee or butter instead for that extra buttery flavor”), vanilla extract, sea salt, almond flour, semi-sweet chocolate chips (Jean notes you can use vegan chocolate chips too).
Instructions:
Line an 8in x 8in baking dish with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, stir peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt together until smooth. Add almond flour and stir until a thick mixture is formed. Fold in chocolate chips. Press into the prepared baking pan in an even layer, and freeze while you make the chocolate layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the remaining chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second increments until melted and smooth when stirred. You can also use a double boiler to melt. Pour the chocolate layer over the peanut butter bars. Freeze for at least 1 hour to chill and set. Slice into 16 squares. You can run the knife under hot water before slicing for a cleaner cut. Store in the refrigerator or freezer.