Layered chocolate and peanut butter bars; a healthier dessert to prepare for cheat days

Layered chocolate and peanut butter bars; a healthier dessert to prepare for cheat days Jake Fitzpatrick '22

For the last few months, my family has been trying to eat healthier. We've been relatively successful so far, but we've been having an issue with desserts. My mother and I both have a 'sweet tooth,' so strawberries and whipped cream have not been sustainable. To solve this issue, I found a recipe for chocolate and peanut butter bars that satisfies our sugar craving without overloading on sugar-filled calories.

INGREDIENTS (183 calories per serving)

Cooking non-stick spray
One cup of miscellaneous chocolate
One cup of packed brown sugar
Two-thirds of a cup of Creamy Peanut Butter
Half of a cup of softened butter
One large egg
One teaspoon vanilla extract
Three-fourths cup all-purpose flour
One half of a teaspoon baking soda
One half of a teaspoon of salt
One and one-quarter cups of quick rolled oats

First, preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 13 by nine-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Melt the chocolate in a dry, microwave-safe bowl on high for one minute and then stir. Microwave for additional 15-second intervals and stir until chips are melted, And set chocolate aside.

Put your brown sugar, peanut butter and butter in a large bowl.

Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy.

Add the egg and vanilla and then beat until well blended.

In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda and salt.

Add your flour mixture to your peanut butter mixture and beat until just combined.

Pour your oats into the mixture and then beat until blended.

Take your peanut butter dough and press it into your prepared baking pan.

Spread the melted chocolate over the dough and then bake for 24 to 26 minutes.

Cool the tray in a refrigerator for an hour and then cut into 24 bars. Store the bars in your refrigerator for up to six days. These bars work well as a healthier dessert option or a delicious cheat-day snack.

All photos taken by Jake Fitzpatrick '22.

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