Peanut Butter Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Essentials

01 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
02 - 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
03 - ¼ cup (84g) honey (or coconut syrup for a plant-based option)
04 - ½ cup (40g) vanilla or plain protein powder of your choice
05 - ¾ cup (192g) creamy peanut butter (made with only peanuts and salt)
06 - ⅓ cup (40g) ground flaxseed

→ Top Layer

07 - Coarse sea salt to sprinkle over the top
08 - 2.5 ounces of a good-quality 85% dark chocolate bar

# Instructions:

01 - Grab a medium bowl and mix the peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and coconut oil until it's smooth. Stir in the flaxseed and protein powder. When the spoon can't mix anymore, use your hands to knead everything together. The texture should feel soft like cookie dough.
02 - Line an 8x4 inch pan with parchment paper. Press the dough evenly into the pan, making sure to pack it down so it stays firm.
03 - Melt the dark chocolate in a small pan over low heat until it's silky smooth. Pour it over the peanut butter base and tilt the pan gently to spread the chocolate evenly across the top.
04 - Pop the pan in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. Once set, cut it into 10 evenly sized pieces. You can store them covered in the fridge for around two weeks.

# Notes:

01 - If the dough feels a bit dry, toss in another ½ - 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil.
02 - For protein powders, flavors like Aloha vanilla plant-based or Vital Proteins collagen peptides work great for consistency.
03 - These treats are like a healthier version of peanut butter cups, but loaded with protein!