Healthy Homemade Butterfingers are a delightful treat that combines the satisfying crunch of corn flakes with the rich creaminess of peanut butter, creating a guilt-free version of this classic candy. Perfect for those following a gluten-free or vegan lifestyle, these homemade bars are easy to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Say goodbye to processed snacks and hello to a healthier alternative that satisfies your sweet tooth and provides a protein punch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter) (240 ml)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (80 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 and 1/4 cup corn flakes (plain or frosted) (about 40 g)
- 1/4 cup peanuts (chopped) (35 g)
- 1 and 1/2 cups chocolate chips (can be dairy-free) (255 g)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (15 ml)
- 1 pinch sea salt
Directions
- Prep the Mixture: In a large bowl, add the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix everything well and set it aside.
- Blend the Crunchy Ingredients: Take the corn flakes and peanuts and add them to a blender or food processor. Pulse a few times until they reach a crumbly texture.
- Combine: Once blended, add the cornflake and peanut mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until you achieve a dough-like consistency.
- Shape the Bars: Line a tray or a plate with parchment paper. Roll the dough into balls, then form them into bar shapes. Place each bar onto the lined tray.
- Freeze: Place the tray in the freezer for about an hour. This will help the bars firm up.
- Make the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Dip the Bars: After the bars are firm from the freezer, remove them and dip each one in the melted chocolate using a fork.
- Set in Freezer: Place the chocolate-coated bars back in the freezer for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the chocolate to harden.
- Enjoy: Once they are set, remove from the freezer and enjoy your Healthy Homemade Butterfingers!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour (freezing)
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: Approximately 12 bars
Nutrition Info: Each bar contains about 150 calories, 7g protein, and 8g sugar (calories may vary based on ingredients used).
How to serve
Serve your Healthy Homemade Butterfingers as a delightful snack or a nutritious dessert. These bars are perfect for lunchboxes, post-workout fuel, or as a sweet treat during movie night. Pair them with a glass of almond milk or your favorite plant-based smoothie for an extra boost of flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different nut or seed butter?
Yes, feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a unique flavor profile while keeping it gluten-free and vegan.
2. How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars can last up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer shelf life.
3. Are there any alternatives to chocolate chips?
You can use cacao nibs or a dairy-free chocolate bar chopped into pieces as a delicious alternative to chocolate chips, maintaining the vegan aspect of the recipe.