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Ever crave something sweet that won’t wreck your energy or send your blood sugar crashing? These bars are rich, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make—no oven required. Even better? You can make them with your kids and not lose your mind by the end of it. It’s that easy! A calming, energy-boosting treat that’s as easy as it is delicious. These Gluten Free Peanut Butter bars are loaded with brain-healthy fats, calming minerals, and slow-digesting carbs to keep you feeling steady and nourished—exactly what your nervous system needs on a busy day.

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Why these are a nutritious choice:

  • Peanut Butter: Rich in magnesium and healthy fats—both crucial for a calm, steady mood and balanced blood sugar.
  • Maple Syrup (in moderation): A natural sweetener with trace minerals like manganese and zinc that support immune and brain function.
  • Oat Flour: A complex carb high in soluble fiber that supports gut health (and serotonin production).
  • Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants and compounds like theobromine that can boost mood and focus.
  • Sea Salt: Adds trace minerals and helps support adrenal health.

Related: The Quiet Mind Kitchen: Cooking for better mental health


How to make Gluten Free Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¾ cup oat flour (or 1 cup almond flour for grain-free option)

Topping:

  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • Flaky sea salt

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and oat flour until fully combined.
  2. Press mixture firmly into an 8×8 dish lined with parchment paper.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and the tablespoon of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted, stirring between each round.
  4. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.
  5. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  6. Freeze for 10 minutes or until set.
  7. Slice into bars and enjoy!
  8. Store in the fridge (for soft bars) or freezer (for firmer texture).

Check out more whole food desserts here: Whole Food Desserts

close up of dark chocolate cut

Gluten Free Peanut Butter Bars

A simple recipe for a quick dessert made with nourishing whole food ingredients
Course Dessert
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill time 5 minutes
Servings 12 squares

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¾ cup oat flour or 1 cup almond flour for grain-free option
  • Topping:
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • Flaky sea salt

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and oat flour until fully combined.
  • Press mixture firmly into an 8×8 dish. The oil from the peanut butter keeps these from sticking.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and the tablespoon of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted, stirring between each round.
  • Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread evenly.
  • Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  • Freeze for 10 min or until set
  • Slice into bars and enjoy!
  • Store in the fridge or freezer