My love for Snickers bars has been a lifelong affair. From the very first bite, this iconic chocolate bar has always held a special place in my heart. The combination of creamy nougat, rich caramel, crunchy peanuts, and smooth milk chocolate has made Snickers my favourite chocolate bar for as long as I can remember. The craving for that satisfying blend of textures and flavours is something I’ve often indulged in, but as I became more health-conscious, I started seeking ways to enjoy this classic treat without the added sugars and artificial ingredients. I then created these delicious guilt free Snickers Style Bars.
Determined to find a healthier alternative, I embarked on a mission to create a homemade version of Snickers bars that would capture all the deliciousness of the original while aligning with my desire for more wholesome ingredients. After some experimentation, I developed a recipe for Healthy Snickers Style Bars with a homemade healthy caramel layer that combines the same delightful flavours I’ve always loved with nutrient-dense ingredients.
Now, I can enjoy the treat that has been my favourite for years, but in a way that supports my healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re a fellow Snickers aficionado or just looking for a nutritious sweet treat, these homemade bars provide a perfect balance of indulgence and health.
The History of Snickers Bars
The Snickers bar, first introduced in 1930 by Mars, Inc., quickly became a favourite in the world of candy. Named after the Mars family’s beloved horse, Snickers combined nougat, caramel, and peanuts, coated in milk chocolate, to create a bar that was both satisfying and indulgent.
Over the decades, it has remained a popular treat worldwide, known for its distinctive flavour and texture. Did you know that 15 million of these bars are made every single day!
The health benefits of my Snickers Style Bars
Homemade Healthy Snickers Style Bars offer several impressive health benefits compared to their traditional counterparts. Made with nutrient-dense ingredients like raw almonds, pitted dates, and natural peanut butter, these bars are rich in essential nutrients.
Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, while dates contribute natural sweetness along with fibre, potassium, and iron. Peanut butter adds additional protein and healthy fats, promoting satiety and sustained energy.
The inclusion of coconut oil and almond butter offers heart-healthy fats that help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. Using pitted dates instead of refined sugar helps avoid blood sugar spikes, thanks to their natural sugars and fibre, which aid in blood sugar regulation and digestive health.
Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) in the recipe is packed with antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. With high fibre content from dates, almonds, and peanuts, these bars support healthy digestion and a well-functioning gut microbiome.
By avoiding added sugars, these homemade bars maintain stable energy levels and reduce the risk of sugar crashes. Plus, the recipe can be customized for various dietary needs, such as vegan or gluten-free diets, allowing for a personalized treat that aligns with specific health goals. Enjoying these Healthy Snickers Bars provides a delicious way to satisfy cravings while benefiting from nutritious, wholesome ingredients.
Recommended Cookware
A good food processor will help you get a great consistency for your caramel and nougat as the mixture can be quite firm a powerful motor is a must. I use this food processor by Ninja one of my favourite brands and it always seems up to the task whatever I seem to throw at it.
Conclusion
These Homemade Healthy Snickers Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavours of your favourite candy bar with a nutritious twist. With their blend of creamy peanut butter, rich caramel, crunchy peanuts, and dark chocolate, they offer a satisfying treat that’s both delicious and wholesome.
Perfect for a sweet snack or a post-workout indulgence, these bars are a great addition to any healthy eating plan. Try making them at home and savour the guilt-free delight of a classic candy reimagined!
Snickers Style Bars: You Would Be Nuts To Not Try These Irresistible Treats
Course: Bake Me HappyCuisine: SnacksDifficulty: Easy12
servings20
minutes10
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Nougat Layer:
1 cup (150g) raw almonds: Provides a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
1 cup (150g) pitted dates: Acts as a natural sweetener and binder.
1/4 cup (60g) natural peanut butter: Adds creaminess and a classic peanut flavour.
1/4 cup (60g) coconut oil: Helps to bind the ingredients and adds a slight richness.
- For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup (150g) pitted dates: Acts as a natural sweetener and base for the caramel.
1/4 cup (60g) coconut milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve a caramel-like texture.
1/4 cup (60g) natural almond butter: Provides a rich, nutty flavour.
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavour.
1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Adds depth to the caramel flavour.
- For the Chocolate Coating:
1/2 cup (75g) dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher): For a rich, less sugary coating.
1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds depth to the chocolate flavour.
1 tablespoon coconut oil: Helps to smooth out the chocolate coating.
- For the Top Layer:
1/2 cup (75g) chopped mixed nuts or just peanuts your choice : Enhances the nutty flavour and adds crunch.
Directions
- Prepare the Nougat Layer: In a food processor, blend the raw almonds until they form a coarse meal. Add the pitted dates and process until the mixture starts to stick together. Add the peanut butter and coconut oil, blending until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Caramel Layer: In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until smooth. Add the coconut milk, almond butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt, blending until the mixture is creamy and resembles caramel.
- Assemble the Bars: Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Press the nougat mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the base layer. Spread the caramel layer evenly over the nougat layer. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top and press them down gently.
- Make the Chocolate Coating: Melt the dark chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly then top with chopped mix nuts or just peanuts if you prefer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy!
Notes
- “You aren’t yourself when your Hungry”