Raw Peanut Butter Bars [Vegan, Gluten-Free]

Who doesn't need more peanut butter in their life? These raw peanut butters are dense, decadent, and delicious. They're half snack, half dessert, satisfying a major sweet tooth while also providing protein from PB and nutrients from bananas. Pack one away for when you need a mid-afternoon snack or enjoy them straight out of the freezer for a refreshing post-dinner treat.

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CRUST:

• 1 cup organic, gluten-free rolled oats
• 1 cup almond flour
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• A pinch of salt

FOR THE FILLING:

• 2 cups peanut butter
• 2 large ripe bananas or 3 regular-sized
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

FOR TOPPING:

• Peanuts
• Vegan chocolate chips
• Gluten-free pretzels (not raw)

PREPARATION

TO MAKE THE CRUST:

1. Line an 8 by 8-inch glass baking dish with parchment paper overlapping the sides for easy removal. Add the crust ingredients to your food processor and blend until you can pinch the ingredients together between your fingers and it sticks. Dump the crust mixture into your pan and press the mixture evenly throughout the bottom of the pan. You can either use your palms or the backside of a measuring cup. Ensure that the mixture is firmly pressed down.

TO MAKE THE FILLING:

1. Add all of the filling ingredients into your food processor (no need to clean it out from the crust). Blend until smooth and creamy. Spoon that on top of your crust, spreading out with a spatula.
2. Add peanuts and mini chocolate chips to the top, if you’d like, then cover and freeze until solid. Before serving, remove from the pan and slice into squares. Let the bars thaw for 10 minutes before serving.