Imagine a dessert so irresistible that it combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the luxurious smoothness of chocolate ganache - all in one heavenly bite! These Chocolate Ganache Peanut Butter Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to dessert paradise. Whether you're a chocolate lover, a peanut butter fanatic, or simply someone who appreciates mind-blowing desserts, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Dessert
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup), stirring until smooth and well blended.
- Add rolled oats to the peanut butter mixture, mixing thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms. The consistency should be slightly sticky but moldable.
- Press the peanut butter and oat mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth the surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill the base while preparing the ganache topping.
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not allow it to boil.
- Remove the cream from heat and pour over chocolate chips in a separate heat-resistant bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow chocolate to melt.
- Whisk the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy, creating a rich ganache.
- Remove the chilled peanut butter base from the refrigerator and pour the warm ganache evenly over the top.
- Gently tilt the pan to ensure the ganache covers the entire surface uniformly.
- Return the pan to the refrigerator and allow to set for approximately 1-2 hours, or until the ganache is firm.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for clean edges.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose a creamy peanut butter and good chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Chill thoroughly: Ensure the bars are completely set in the refrigerator for clean, perfect cuts.
- Room temperature serving: Let bars sit for 10 minutes before serving to achieve the perfect texture.
- Customize your sweetness: Adjust honey or maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
- Clean knife technique: Wipe your knife between cuts for pristine, smooth bar edges.
- Storage hack: These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for make-ahead desserts.
- Optional enhancements: Sprinkle sea salt or chopped nuts on top of the ganache for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 10mg
