Description
These Apple Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful no-bake treat combining the natural sweetness of dates, crunchy peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and sautéed cinnamon-spiced apple slices. Perfect as a healthy snack or dessert, they feature layered textures and flavors, set to firm up in the fridge for easy slicing and serving.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted (260 grams/about 15-16)
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Middle Layer
- 1 cup all natural crunchy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Topping
- 2 medium apples, cut into 1/4-inch slices (about 300 grams)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
- Coconut oil, for greasing and sautéing (additional amount as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease an 8×8 inch glass baking dish with coconut oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the base layer: In a food processor, add the dates, dry roasted peanuts, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse for about 1 minute until ingredients are broken down and combined but with some texture remaining. If the mixture is not sticky enough to hold together, add approximately 1 tablespoon of water to help it bind. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a compact layer.
- Add the peanut butter layer: Spread the crunchy peanut butter evenly over the date and peanut base layer in the dish, creating a smooth middle layer.
- Sauté the apples: Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add 2 teaspoons of coconut oil and allow it to warm for about 30 seconds. Add the sliced apples and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly but still retain some firmness. Stir in the cinnamon and a pinch of sea salt to evenly coat the apples.
- Top the bars with apples: Layer the sautéed cinnamon apples evenly over the peanut butter layer in the baking dish.
- Chill to set: Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the bars to firm up properly.
- Serve: Once set, cut into 16 bars, serve, and store any leftovers in the fridge for freshness.
Notes
- For stickier date mixture, add water gradually to avoid making it too wet.
- Use crunchy peanut butter for texture contrast, but creamy can be substituted if preferred.
- Apples should be sautéed until just softened to maintain slight crispness.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch before chilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
