Introduction
Peanut bar has always been a favorite snack in my kitchen, offering a crunchy, nutty, and satisfying treat for any occasion. Whether it was a quick afternoon pick-me-up or a homemade gift for family and friends, this simple yet delicious snack never failed to bring comfort.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few wholesome ingredients. This no-bake peanut bar combines roasted peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and honey for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed snack, an energy boost, or a healthier alternative to store-bought bars, this recipe has you covered.
Let’s get started and make a batch of this irresistible treat!
What You’ll Need
Making peanut bars at home is simple and mess-free, especially when you have the right tools. Here are the essentials that will make the process smooth and easy:
- Saucepan – To melt the peanut butter and honey together.
- Baking dish – Helps shape the bars and ensures even thickness.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Sharp knife – For cutting the bars neatly once they’re set.
These basic kitchen tools will help you create perfectly shaped peanut bars with minimal effort. Now, let’s take a look at the ingredients that bring this recipe together.
Peanut Bar Ingredients
This peanut bar recipe requires just a handful of simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness.
- 1 cup roasted peanuts – Adds crunch and a deep nutty flavor. If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy making these spicy peanuts for a unique twist on classic roasted nuts.
- ½ cup honey – A natural sweetener that also helps bind the bars together.
- ½ cup peanut butter – Brings a creamy texture and enhances the nutty taste.
- ½ cup oats – Adds fiber and a slight chewiness to the bars.
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional) – A touch of sweetness for chocolate lovers. If you’re a fan of homemade treats, you might also want to try this small batch chocolate chip cookies recipe for another easy and satisfying dessert.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of saltiness.
These ingredients work together to create a delicious and nutritious snack that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat.
How to Make Peanut Bars
Making peanut bars is quick and simple, with just a few easy steps. Follow this guide to create perfectly crunchy and delicious bars.
1. Melt the Peanut Butter & Honey
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter and honey together. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients
Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the peanuts, oats, and sea salt. If using chocolate chips, let the mixture cool slightly before folding them in to prevent melting.
3. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Line a baking dish with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly and press down firmly.
4. Chill & Set
Refrigerate for at least one hour until the mixture firms up. This step ensures the bars hold their shape.
5. Cut into Bars
Once set, remove from the dish and cut into even bars using a sharp knife. Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Tips and Hacks
Here are some useful tricks to make your peanut bars even better:
- For extra crunch: Add crushed pretzels or puffed rice for a more textured bite.
- Make it vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup to keep it plant-based.
- Mess-free cutting: Dip your knife in hot water before slicing for clean, even bars.
- Customize the sweetness: Adjust the honey or peanut butter ratio to make the bars more or less sweet. If you’re in the mood for something even more indulgent, check out this pecan pie cobbler recipe for a warm and comforting dessert option.
- On-the-go snack: Wrap bars individually in parchment paper for a quick and portable treat.
With these simple tips, you can personalize your peanut bars and make them just the way you like!
Peanut Bar Nutrition Score (Per Serving)
These homemade peanut bars are nutritious, energy-boosting, and packed with natural ingredients. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fat: ~10g
For a lighter version, reduce the peanut butter slightly or use less honey. If you want extra protein, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the mixture.
These bars make a great post-workout snack or an easy grab-and-go breakfast!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is peanut bar healthy?
Yes! Peanut bars are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Using natural sweeteners like honey makes them a better alternative to store-bought snacks filled with artificial ingredients.
Has Lance discontinued the peanut bar?
Yes, Lance has discontinued its peanut bars, but this homemade version lets you enjoy the same delicious crunch and nutty flavor anytime.
Who owns the peanut bar?
If you’re referring to a specific brand, Lance previously sold peanut bars, but today, many companies produce their own versions of this classic snack.
What restaurant gives you a bucket of peanuts?
Restaurants like Texas Roadhouse are known for serving buckets of peanuts to guests as part of their dining experience.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Peanut Bars
Making your own peanut bars at home is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crunchy, nutty snack that’s perfect for on-the-go energy, meal prep, or a healthy treat.
Whether you prefer them as-is, with a chocolate drizzle, or with extra crunch, these peanut bars are versatile and customizable to your taste. Plus, they’re a better alternative to processed snack bars, giving you full control over the ingredients.
Try making a batch today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and nutty goodness!