No-Bake Healthy-ish Buckeye Bars

Yield: 16 servings

Four simple ingredients produce a healthier alternative to a peanut butter cup that's incredibly tasty, too!

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment or wax paper, and make sure you have room in the freezer for this pan.

For the peanut butter (bottom) layer: In a medium bowl, stir together the 1 cup peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut flour until thoroughly combined. Transfer to the prepared baking pan, and smooth into an even layer. (I like to place a piece of parchment paper over the top and press all over with a flat-bottomed measuring cup in order to make a completely flat layer.) Set aside.

For the chocolate (top) layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and ½ cup peanut butter. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Optionally, you may melt the mixture on the stovetop in a double boiler. Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer. Tilt the pan to distribute the chocolate, using a rubber spatula as needed to create an even layer. For a salty-sweet option, sprinkle very lightly with sea salt.

Transfer the pan to the freezer for 45-60 minutes or until hardened. Remove from the freezer and cut into squares with a large, sharp knife. Tip: It will be easier to cut into squares if you let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes or so.