Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Your gang is going to go hog wild over our easy recipe for Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars. Imagine teaming the tastes of these two favorites in one awesome snack bar! This treat is perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or even a fun weekend baking project. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, you’ll be a hero at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in no time, making it a great option for busy days.
• Flavor Combination: The mix of creamy peanut butter and crispy turkey bacon creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for kids and adults alike, these bars are great for lunchboxes or dessert tables.
• Chocolate Delight: Topped with semi-sweet chocolate chips, these bars add a touch of indulgence to your day.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or use different types of chocolate for added variety.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8- x 8-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 8- x 8-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly baked bars that achieve the perfect texture.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring a consistent batter without lumps.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 10 Turkey Bacon slices, crisply cooked and crumbled, divided
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, divided
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8- x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the bars don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together brown sugar and softened butter until creamy.
2. Add peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt; stir until just mixed.
4. Fold in 1/2 cup crumbled turkey bacon and 1/3 cup chopped peanuts.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Topping

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top.
2. Return to oven for an additional minute until chips are melted.
3. Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate over the top evenly.
4. Sprinkle remaining turkey bacon and chopped peanuts on top.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delightful Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars!

How to Serve Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

These Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars are not just delicious on their own; they can be paired with various sides and toppings for a complete snack experience. Here are some creative serving ideas to enhance your enjoyment.

With a Glass of Milk

• A cold glass of milk complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly, balancing the rich flavors.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add sliced bananas or strawberries on top for a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the peanut butter.

Paired with Yogurt

• Serve these bars alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture that adds protein and tang.

As a Dessert After Dinner

• Cut them into smaller squares and serve as a sweet treat after dinner, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, crumble the bars over vanilla ice cream. The warm chocolate will melt slightly, creating a delightful combination.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your bars are both tasty and well-textured.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and egg are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to better texture.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough bars. Overmixing can lead to dense and chewy results.

• Check baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking. Remove them when a toothpick comes out clean for optimal softness.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting ensures they hold their shape and makes them easier to slice.

• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

When serving Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your snack time. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, enhancing your overall snack experience.
2. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggies like carrots or celery dipped in hummus offer a savory contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
3. Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix provides a crunchy texture and additional flavors that pair well with peanut butter.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a savory element that balances the sweetness.
5. Rice Cakes: Light and airy rice cakes served plain or topped with more peanut butter make for an excellent crunchy side.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl filled with fruits and greens complements the richness of the bars while adding nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars, it’s easy to overlook some small details that can make a big difference.

• Using Soft Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Melted butter can lead to a greasy texture in the bars.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to avoid altering the balance of flavors.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This helps set the chocolate and makes slicing easier.
• Not Adjusting Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for convenience.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, covered, for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars.

Can I use different nuts in Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chopped almonds or walnuts based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars are chewy?

Avoid overbaking your bars; they should still be slightly soft when you take them out of the oven.

Can I add other ingredients to my Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars?

Absolutely! You can mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added flavor and texture.

What kind of peanut butter is best for Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars?

Creamy peanut butter works best, but you can also use chunky for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter-Turkey Bacon Bars are a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various nuts or even sweeteners. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!