Delicious Peanut Butter Tart Squares Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m always on a mission to create healthy and delicious recipes. Today I want to share one of my all-time favorites that never disappoints: Peanut Butter Tart Squares.
These tasty treats are gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein thanks to unsalted dry-roasted peanuts and peanut butter cup. And don’t worry, the absence of gluten and dairy doesn’t sacrifice any indulgence or flavor in this recipe – you deserve a treat that is both satisfying and guilt-free.
This recipe is easy to make, but the end result is anything but basic. It’s versatile, as you can whip it up as bars or squares for a snack on-the-go or serve them as a dessert on fancy occasions. What’s more? You can also customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips or maple syrup for a variety of flavor profiles!
So put on your apron, break out your mixing bowl, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C), and let’s get baking! Your taste buds will thank me later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for a delicious treat that is also gluten-free and dairy-free? These Peanut Butter Tart Squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! You’ll love this recipe because it’s not only delicious, but it’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses unsalted dry roasted peanuts and peanut butter as the main ingredient. Peanuts contain heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which can help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. Peanut butter also provides plenty of protein along with its rich, nutty flavor.
But this recipe’s goodness doesn’t stop at the peanuts. We’ve used gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and baking powder to create a crispy tart base that complements the peanut butter filling perfectly. Our mix of brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt results in a slightly sweet filling without being too overpowering or sugary.
You’ll also appreciate how versatile this recipe is with ingredients substitutions and variations. For example, you could swap out unsalted dry roasted peanuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. For a vegan gluten-free version, use vegan butter instead of regular butter and maple syrup instead of corn syrup.
And let’s not forget about the final touch: the chocolate peanut butter drizzle! This adds a decadent sweetness to your tart squares that takes them to another level of deliciousness. Trust me when I say – one bite and you’ll fall in love with these Peanut Butter Tart Squares!
So whether you’re looking for a dessert after dinner or a special treat for any occasion – birthdays, potlucks or just because – these Peanut Butter Tart Squares are sure to be a hit!
Ingredient List
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of our Peanut Butter Tart Squares gluten-free recipe. Before we begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready to create a delectable and healthy treat!
- For the Crust
- 1 and 3/4 cups unsalted dry roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 egg yolk
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- For the Filling
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional Toppings
- Chocolate chips
- Melted peanut butter
- Chopped peanuts
Don’t worry if you have dietary restrictions: this recipe uses gluten-free flour, and you can easily substitute the butter for vegan or dairy-free alternatives!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredient list ready, let’s dive into the recipe how-to. This Peanut Butter Tart Square recipe is not necessarily difficult to make, but it does require a few steps. Trust me, it’s worth it! Let’s get started.
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crust
First things first, let’s make the pretzel crust! In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed gluten-free pretzels with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 2/3 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix well until you get a crumbly texture.
Step 2: Bake the Pretzel Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, then transfer the pretzel mixture into the pan. Spread out evenly and press down using your hands or a flat surface to form a crust. Bake in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden brown.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
While your crust is baking, start making your peanut butter filling. Using the same bowl as before (less dirty dishes for later!), beat together 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in two eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition. Lastly, add in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Tart Squares
Pour your peanut butter filling on top of your cooled down pretzel crust and spread it out evenly. Bake it for another 22-25 minutes until it’s set and slightly golden brown on top. Make sure it cools down completely before cutting it into tart squares.
Step 5: Optional – Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping
For an extra indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate on top of your peanut butter tart squares! You can use gluten-free chocolate chips or melt some chocolate peanut butter cups in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Let them cool down for a few minutes, then cut into bars and enjoy!
There you have it, folks! You now know how to make these delicious and healthy Peanut Butter Tart Squares. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t let allergies or personal preferences hold back the peanut butter bliss you deserve. Here are some creative takes on the recipe to suit your needs.
– Gluten-free pretzel crust: Substitute gluten-free pretzels for unsalted dry roasted peanuts in the crust. Crush them and mix them with brown sugar, cornstarch and melted butter to make a salty-sweet base.
– Vegan option: Use vegan butter or margarine instead of regular butter, and substitute pecan butter or almond butter for peanut butter. Swap eggs for a flax or chia seed egg substitute, and use maple syrup instead of corn syrup in the filling.
– Chocolate overload: For chocolate peanut butter tart squares, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the crust mix and sprinkle chopped dark chocolate on top of the filling before baking. Alternatively, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together for a drizzle to decorate.
– Tart bars: Double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13 inch pan lined with parchment paper to make tall and sturdy tart bars. Cut them into smaller pieces for bite-size delights.
– Nut-free version: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter, and omit peanuts from the recipe altogether. Use gluten-free oat flour instead of flour if you’re gluten intolerant.
Experiment with these variations until you find your perfect combination. Remember that cooking is an adventure that invites creativity and expression. Happy baking!
Serving and Pairing
:
The irresistible Peanut Butter Tart Squares are not only gluten-free but also make for a fantastic treat after dinner or for a work potluck. These treats are a masterpiece, and you can serve them cold or warm with a glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee, any time of the day, for an ultimate bliss.
Jazz up your experience by combining this dessert with peanut butter ice cream, banana slices, or fresh fruit. A drizzle of chocolate sauce will do wonders too!
The smoothness of the filling, the crumbly crust, and the crunchiness of the peanuts create a mouthwatering sensation that is impossible to resist.
Peanut butter tart squares are great for any occasion, from parties to picnics, anniversaries to birthdays. In fact, you can never go wrong with peanut butter recipes – they’re mmm mmm good!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to these delectable peanut butter tart squares, you’ll want to make sure you have some leftovers for later! Luckily, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and storing for future cravings.
To make ahead, simply follow the recipe as written and allow the tart squares to cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, you can store them in the fridge for up to one week.
If you’re looking to reheat the squares, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until they are warmed through. Another option is to microwave the squares on low heat until they are heated through. Just be careful not to overdo it and end up with dry, tough squares!
When it comes to storing, I recommend separating each layer of tart squares with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent sticking. This way, you can easily grab just one or two squares whenever a craving strikes.
And don’t worry if your tart squares start to look a little less than perfect after storage – simply give them a quick dusting of powdered sugar before serving and no one will know the difference. These peanut butter tart squares are sure to please no matter what stage of freshness they’re in!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you know how to make these delicious peanut butter tart squares, let me share some helpful tips for getting the best results possible:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: Since this recipe uses simple ingredients, it’s important to use the best quality ones you can find. Choose unsalted dry roasted peanuts, pure vanilla extract, and free-range organic eggs for the richest flavor.
2. Ensure your butter is at room temperature: Room temperature butter will blend more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth batter that bakes evenly.
3. Don’t skimp on the parchment paper: Make sure to line your baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the pan.
4. Allow time for cooling: These peanut butter tart squares need to cool completely before slicing into them. This step is vital for the filling to set and hold its shape once cut.
5. Store properly: To keep your tart squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container.
6. Experiment with different toppings: While these squares are delicious on their own, try experimenting with different toppings such as roasted pecans or drizzled chocolate for some added flair and flavor.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfect results every time you make these gluten-free peanut butter tart squares! Remember, practice makes perfect!
Bottom Line
your article with a persuasive call to action, encouraging your readers to try the recipe and make it their own.
In conclusion, these peanut butter tart squares are the perfect gluten-free treat for any occasion. With their creamy peanut butter filling and buttery shortbread crust, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. And the best part? You can easily customize them to suit your tastes and dietary needs by substituting ingredients or adding new ones!
So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to share with friends and family or just want to indulge in some delicious dessert, these peanut butter tart squares are sure to satisfy. And don’t forget to let us know how they turned out – we love hearing from our readers! Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Tart Squares - Gluten Free Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soft margarine
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup rice flour (regular white flour in original recipe)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
topping
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 tablespoons softened butter (I used soft margarine)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 cup chopped unsalted dry roasted peanuts
- 1/2 cup peanut butter chips
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Beat butter, peanut butter, and sugar in a bowl until creamy.
- Stir in flour, cornstarch and salt until well combined and crumbly.
- Press evenly into bottom of a buttered 8" square baking dish. Bake 350F for 12-15 mins or until pale golden around edges; set aside.
- topping: Mix together corn syrup, cornstarch, baking powder and salt until smooth.
- Stir in butter, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.
- Pour over crust. Sprinkle peanuts, and peanut butter and chocolate chips over top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and just set in the centre.
- Let cool completely un pan on rack.