Chocolate Almond Butter Squares
Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Butter Squares whenever I crave a sweet treat that's both rich and satisfying. These squares provide the perfect balance of decadent chocolate and nutty almond butter, making them a delightful indulgence. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in no time, and they hold well in the fridge for those moments when I need a quick sweet fix. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to keep a stash on hand for any occasion!
When I first tried making Chocolate Almond Butter Squares, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The combination of creamy almond butter with smooth melted chocolate creates a texture that is simply irresistible. By using high-quality ingredients, I've found that the flavor really shines through, making each bite a delightful experience.
I learned that letting the squares chill adequately after assembling them is crucial. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it becomes easier to cut them into perfect squares. Now, it's not just a recipe for me; it's a staple in my sweet treats repertoire!
Why You'll Love These
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
- No-bake recipe for a quick and easy sweet treat
- Perfect for satisfying cravings without guilt
Understanding Ingredients
The foundation of these Chocolate Almond Butter Squares lies in the combination of almond butter and dark chocolate. Almond butter not only contributes a creamy texture but also brings healthy fats and protein, making the squares more satisfying. Opt for a natural almond butter without added sugars or oils to enhance the flavor and keep the ingredients wholesome. The quality of your dark chocolate is crucial as well; choose a brand that specifies a cacao percentage of at least 70% for a rich, indulgent taste.
Honey or maple syrup acts as the sweetener and binds all the ingredients together, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you're looking for a refined sugar-free option, using pure maple syrup gives a lovely depth without being overly sweet. The addition of rolled oats provides texture and helps absorb moisture, making the squares more substantial. Make sure to use whole oats rather than quick oats for the best results.
Technique Tips for Success
Melting chocolate can be tricky; it's essential to maintain a low heat to prevent seizing. I recommend using a double boiler method or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir the chocolate constantly until it becomes glossy and smooth before incorporating the almond butter and other ingredients. This ensures a uniform mixture free from lumps, which gives you the perfect texture in your completed squares.
When lining your baking dish, use parchment paper that overhangs the edges a bit. This not only makes it easier to remove the squares for cutting but also helps prevent sticking. Once your mixture is poured into the pan, press it firmly to eliminate air pockets and ensure even solidification. Using the back of a spatula works well; just be careful not to disturb the shape you’ve formed.
Ingredients for Chocolate Almond Butter Squares
For the Squares
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
How to Make Chocolate Almond Butter Squares
Prepare the Mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips. Stir in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, rolled oats, and sea salt until well combined.
Set in a Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
Chill and Cut
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.
Keep these squares stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture before setting it. You can also substitute the almond butter for any nut or seed butter of your choice!
Storage and Shelf Life
These Chocolate Almond Butter Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re planning to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each square in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for about 2-3 months frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy one, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it for just a few seconds for a warm treat.
Always ensure the container is completely sealed to prevent the squares from drying out or absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. If the squares become too soft after thawing, they may still taste great; just place them back in the fridge to firm up before serving.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different nut butters in this recipe if you're looking for variety. Cashew butter or peanut butter would be delicious alternatives that bring their unique flavors. Just keep in mind that these substitutes might change the final taste of the squares slightly. You could also add a touch of sea salt or flaky salt on top before chilling to balance the sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re a fan of texture, consider adding mix-ins such as shredded coconut, dried fruits, or even chopped nuts right into the chocolate mixture. Just be cautious with your proportions; you don’t want to overwhelm the chocolate and almond butter base too much, which could lead to a crumbly final product instead of those delightful squares.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor!
→ How long do these squares last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
→ What other ingredients can I add?
Consider adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried fruit to diversify the texture and taste!
Chocolate Almond Butter Squares
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Butter Squares whenever I crave a sweet treat that's both rich and satisfying. These squares provide the perfect balance of decadent chocolate and nutty almond butter, making them a delightful indulgence. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in no time, and they hold well in the fridge for those moments when I need a quick sweet fix. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to keep a stash on hand for any occasion!
What You'll Need
For the Squares
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips. Stir in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, rolled oats, and sea salt until well combined.
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture before setting it. You can also substitute the almond butter for any nut or seed butter of your choice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g