Keto Payday Candy Bars: A Low-Carb Indulgence

Introduction

Keto Payday Candy Bars are a delightful twist on the classic confectionery treat that brings the same sweet and salty satisfaction without the high carb count. This homemade version combines a rich peanut butter filling with a crunchy nut topping, all coated in sugar-free chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle, these bars are easy to make and incredibly rewarding. In this detailed guide, you will find all the measurements, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and useful tips to create your own Keto Payday Candy Bars.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Filling

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, approximately 4g net carbs)
  • 1/4 cup powdered erythritol (or other keto-friendly sweetener, approximately 0g net carbs)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Nut Topping

  • 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (such as peanuts, almonds, or pecans, approximately 6g net carbs)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for binding, approximately 0g net carbs)

For the Chocolate Coating

  • 1 cup sugar-free chocolate chips (approximately 3g net carbs)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (to help with melting and smoothness)

Total Net Carbs

  • Total Net Carbs for Entire Recipe: Approximately 13g net carbs, or about 2g net carbs per bar (if the recipe makes 6 bars).

Equipment Needed

  1. Mixing bowls: For preparing the peanut butter filling and chocolate coating.
  2. Baking dish: An 8×8 inch pan works well for setting the bars.
  3. Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
  4. Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate.
  5. Spatula: For spreading the filling and coating.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan (Approx. 5 minutes)

  1. Line the Baking Dish: Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out later. This step is crucial for easy removal and cleaning.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling (Approx. 10 minutes)

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of natural peanut butter, 1/4 cup of powdered erythritol, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use a spatula to mix everything until it is smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
  2. Spread in the Pan: Pour the peanut butter mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using the spatula. Press down firmly to ensure it adheres well and has a uniform thickness. This forms the base layer of your candy bars.

Step 3: Prepare the Nut Topping (Approx. 5 minutes)

  1. Mix Nuts and Coconut Oil: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped mixed nuts with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Stir until the nuts are well coated. The coconut oil helps to bind the nuts together, adding both flavor and texture.
  2. Layer the Nuts: Evenly sprinkle the nut mixture over the peanut butter layer in the baking dish. Press down gently to ensure they stick to the filling. This adds a delightful crunch to your bars.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture (Approx. 30 minutes)

  1. Chill in the Fridge: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the peanut butter layer is firm. This step is essential for making it easier to cut the bars later.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Coating (Approx. 10 minutes)

  1. Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of sugar-free chocolate chips along with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. The coconut oil helps achieve a glossy finish and smoother texture.

Step 6: Coat the Bars (Approx. 10 minutes)

  1. Remove and Cut: Once the peanut butter layer is firm, carefully lift the entire mixture out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut into equal-sized bars (about 6 bars).
  2. Dip in Chocolate: Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the bars back onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Chill Again (Approx. 15 minutes)

  1. Set the Chocolate: Place the chocolate-coated bars in the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set properly. This step ensures that the bars are easy to handle and maintain their shape.

Step 8: Serve and Store (Approx. 5 minutes)

  1. Serve: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Keto Payday Candy Bars are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a sweet snack or dessert that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle.
  2. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. These bars can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

  • Calories: Approximately 200
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Net Carbs: 2g

Tips for Success

  • Peanut Butter Choice: Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugars or oils. Look for brands with just peanuts and salt for the best flavor and texture.
  • Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or seeds in the topping. Chopped almonds, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds can add unique flavors and textures.
  • Chocolate Options: If you prefer a different flavor, you can use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips that are keto-friendly. Just ensure they fit within your carb limits.

Variations

  • Add Flavors: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon into the chocolate for added depth of flavor.
  • Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite low-carb protein powder to the peanut butter filling for an extra protein punch.
  • Coconut Version: Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut over the peanut butter layer before adding the nuts for a tropical twist.

Conclusion

Keto Payday Candy Bars are a fantastic way to indulge your sweet cravings while staying committed to your ketogenic diet. With their satisfying crunch, creamy peanut butter filling, and rich chocolate coating, these bars deliver all the deliciousness of the original candy bar but with a fraction of the carbs. By following this detailed recipe, you can easily create a batch to share or enjoy throughout the week. Savor every bite, knowing you’ve created a treat that aligns perfectly with your health goals!