A Healthier Twist on a Classic Treat!
Pay Day candy bars often fly under the radar, but they’re one of those nostalgic treats that, once you’ve had a taste, you can’t forget. I’ve whipped up a yummy, healthier version of the classic Pay Day bar that’s easy to make and oh-so-delicious.
These Pay Day Pieces are packed with creamy peanut butter, a hint of caramel, and a crunchy peanut coating.
Plus, they’re refined sugar-free, so you can indulge guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a classic treat with a healthier spin—no refined sugars, just wholesome, tasty ingredients.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few key components, this recipe is both easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 can full-fat coconut cream
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (organic, with no added sugars or oils)
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups dry roasted organic peanuts
Key Ingredient Notes
Dry Roasted Peanuts: I prefer using dry roasted organic peanuts. Conventionally grown peanuts often come with pesticide residues and mold contamination risks. Organic peanuts are a cleaner choice and still pack that essential crunch!
Coconut Cream: For that rich, creamy caramel, make sure to use full-fat coconut cream. The solid part of the can is perfect for achieving a silky texture.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Opt for a creamy, organic peanut butter without added sugars or oils. MaraNatha is a personal favorite of mine for its pure, smooth taste.
Coconut Sugar: This sweetener is a great alternative to refined sugars. It’s lower on the glycemic index and adds a caramel-like sweetness to the mix.
Coconut Flour: To help thicken the caramel sauce and give it that nougat-like consistency, coconut flour is key. Remember to sift it first to avoid any clumps.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brings out the best in the peanut butter caramel.
Instructions
Prep Tips:
- Stir Frequently: Keep an eye on the caramel as it cooks and stir regularly to avoid burning.
- Cool Down: Allow the caramel to cool slightly before mixing in the peanut butter to prevent separation.
Create the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut cream, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium, stirring frequently until the mixture starts to bubble. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick. Once done, set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
Mix in Peanut Butter and Coconut Flour: Once the caramel has slightly cooled, whisk in the creamy peanut butter and sifted coconut flour until fully combined.
Assemble the Bars: In a silicone candy bar mold (or an 8×8 dish lined with parchment paper), layer the peanuts at the bottom. Freeze for at least an hour to set.
Finish Up: Remove the bars from the mold or dish, cut into pieces, and store them in the fridge.
Hey, did you know this…
A Brief History of Pay Day Bars
Pay Day bars have been around since 1932 and are known for their simple yet satisfying combination of peanuts and caramel. Despite being overshadowed by other chocolate-covered treats, Pay Day remains a classic favorite, celebrated for its no-fuss, crunchy goodness.
Tips for Success:
Storage Tips
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Just let them thaw a bit before eating for the best texture.
Refrigerate: Store the Pay Day Pieces in the fridge to keep them firm. They’re best enjoyed chilled.
Mold Matters: I love using a silicone mini muffin tin for perfectly portioned bites. You could also use a loaf pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal if you prefer bars.
Mini Muffin Tin
Non-stick & Easy to Release: flexible silicone cupcake tray has a non-stick surface
Easy to Clean & Dishwasher Safe: The non-stick surface of our muffin tins makes cleaning a breeze. Rinse with water or place in the dishwasher
Multifunction: These cupcake pans are perfect for muffins, cupcakes, egg muffins, pizza muffins, cheesecake, baked oatmeal, etc..
Recipe Variations
Here are two fun add-ins or variations to mix things up with your Pay Day Bites:
1. Chocolate-Dipped Pay Day Pieces
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Instructions:
- After your Pay Day Pieces have set and you’ve cut them into bars, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler.
- Dip each piece halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the chocolate-dipped pieces on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate or freeze until the chocolate is fully set.
2. Peanut Butter & Pretzel Pay Day Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup crushed pretzels (for a salty crunch)
- 1/2 cup additional creamy peanut butter (to mix with pretzels)
Instructions:
- Mix the crushed pretzels with the additional creamy peanut butter in a bowl until well combined.
- Follow the original recipe’s steps up until assembling the bars.
- Before adding the peanut layer in the mold, sprinkle a layer of the peanut butter and pretzel mixture over the peanuts at the bottom of the mold.
- Continue with the recipe as directed, adding the caramel and peanut butter mixture on top.
These variations add a fun twist to the classic Pay Day Pieces and cater to different tastes—whether you’re in the mood for chocolate or a salty-sweet combo!
Ingredients
- 1 can full-fat coconut cream
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter organic, with no added sugars or oils
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups dry roasted organic peanuts
Instructions
- 1. Create the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut cream, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium, stirring frequently until the mixture starts to bubble. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick. Once done, set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
- 2. Mix in Peanut Butter and Coconut Flour: Once the caramel has slightly cooled, whisk in the creamy peanut butter and sifted coconut flour until fully combined.
- 3. Assemble the Bars: In a silicone candy bar mold (or an 8×8 dish lined with parchment paper), layer the peanuts at the bottom. Freeze for at least an hour to set.
- 4. Finish Up: Remove the bars from the mold or dish, cut into pieces, and store them in the fridge.
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