Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Treats: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Recipe

Indulging in sweet treats doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating goals. This recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Treats combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, enhanced with crunchy crushed peanuts. Designed to be lower in Weight Watchers (WW) points, these treats are both satisfying and guilt-free. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide detailed instructions, measurements, and nutritional information, along with helpful tips to make these treats a hit in your home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or semi-sweet for a sweeter flavor)
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (look for one with no added sugar or oils)
  • 1 cup crushed peanuts (unsalted, for the best flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for a smoother chocolate)

Optional Ingredients

  • Pinch of sea salt (to enhance flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (for added sweetness, if desired)

Equipment Needed

  1. Microwave-safe bowls: For melting chocolate and peanut butter.
  2. Small baking pan (8×8 inch or similar): To set the treats.
  3. Parchment paper: For easy removal of treats from the pan.
  4. Mixing spoon or spatula: For combining ingredients.
  5. Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

  1. Line the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the treats once set. Allow some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

  1. Microwave the Chocolate: Place 1 cup of dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 60 seconds. After 30 seconds, pause and stir the chocolate to promote even melting. If necessary, return it to the microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds until fully melted and smooth.
  2. Optional Coconut Oil: If you want a creamier texture, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate and stir until well combined. This step is optional but helps create a glossy finish.

Step 3: Melt the Peanut Butter

  1. Microwave the Peanut Butter: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add 1/2 cup of natural peanut butter. Microwave for 60 seconds until it is smooth and pourable. Stir well to ensure it’s evenly melted.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Pour the melted peanut butter into the bowl with the melted chocolate. Mix thoroughly until both are fully combined, creating a rich chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

Step 4: Add the Peanuts

  1. Incorporate Crushed Peanuts: Take 1 cup of crushed peanuts and add them to the chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the peanuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  2. Adjust Sweetness (Optional): If desired, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the mixture for extra sweetness. This is particularly useful if you prefer a sweeter treat.

Step 5: Pour and Set

  1. Pour into Prepared Pan: Pour the mixture into the lined baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to push the mixture into the corners of the pan for an even layer.
  2. Top with Remaining Peanuts: Sprinkle the remaining crushed peanuts on top of the mixture for added texture and flavor. Gently press them down to ensure they stick.

Step 6: Chill and Cut

  1. Refrigerate to Set: Place the baking pan in the refrigerator and allow the mixture to chill for at least 1-2 hours or until fully set. This step is crucial for achieving a firm texture that can be easily cut into bars.
  2. Cut into Squares: Once set, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars of your desired size.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

  1. Store Properly: Store the chocolate peanut butter treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
  2. Serve and Share: Enjoy these delicious treats as a satisfying snack or dessert. They make a great addition to lunch boxes or as a post-workout fuel.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Servings: Approximately 16 (depending on cut size)
  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 3g

SmartPoints Calculation

Each serving of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Treats is approximately 4-5 Weight Watchers SmartPoints, depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.

Useful Tips

  • Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chocolate and natural peanut butter for the best flavor. Check labels for added sugars and oils to keep the recipe as healthy as possible.
  • Peanut Substitutes: If you’re allergic to peanuts, consider using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the flavors even more.

Variations

  • Chocolate Drizzle: For added elegance, melt a small amount of chocolate and drizzle it over the top before serving.
  • Nutty Additions: Incorporate other nuts like almonds or walnuts into the mixture for a mixed-nut version.
  • Dried Fruits: Add in some chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness and additional texture.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Treats are a perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their rich chocolate flavor, creamy peanut butter, and satisfying crunch from the peanuts, these treats are a delightful snack that you can enjoy anytime. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these low-point delights will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!