Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Walnut Plum Cookie Bars, a perfect treat for any occasion. With layers of crushed cookies, walnuts, and plums combined with a rich chocolate glaze, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect as a dessert or snack, they offer a delightful mix of crunch, sweetness, and richness in every bite.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling time)
Ingredients
- 500 g (17.63 ounces) cookies, crushed
- 120 g (4.23 ounces) walnuts, chopped
- 70 g (2.46 ounces) dried plums, finely chopped
- 250 ml (8.45 fl oz) milk
- 120 g (3.52 ounces) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 150 g (5.29 ounces) butter, melted
- 160 g (5.64 ounces) chocolate (any variety), melted
- 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) vegetable oil
- 50 g (1.76 ounces) peanuts, chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Base
- Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
- In a large bowl, mix the crushed cookies with the chopped walnuts and plums.
- Make the Chocolate Syrup
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the melted butter and continue stirring until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Combine the Mixture
- Pour the chocolate syrup over the cookie mixture and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Form the Bars
- Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper.
- Transfer the mixture to the dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
- Melt the chocolate with the vegetable oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie mixture and spread it evenly.
- Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the chocolate glaze. Press gently to ensure they stick.
- Chill and Slice
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2-3 hours or until the mixture is firm.
- Once set, remove from the dish, slice into bars, and serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert.
- Wrap in parchment paper and gift as a homemade treat.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a balanced flavor in the glaze.
- Ensure the cookie mixture is firmly packed to prevent crumbling when sliced.
- Substitute walnuts and plums with other nuts or dried fruits for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
- Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
- Plums: Rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars.
- Cocoa: Provides flavonoids, which have heart-health benefits.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cookies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~4 g
- Carbohydrates: ~30 g
- Fat: ~16 g
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make with pantry staples.
- A perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Versatile and customizable with different nuts or dried fruits.
- Great for entertaining, gifting, or indulging.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Walnut Plum Cookie Bars are a quick and delightful dessert that combines the best of sweet and nutty flavors. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring as a personal treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh plums instead of dried?
- Dried plums are recommended for their concentrated sweetness and firm texture.
- What type of cookies should I use?
- Digestive or tea biscuits work well, but you can use any plain cookies.
- Can I substitute butter with margarine?
- Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute.
- How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the dish?
- Line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Use plant-based butter, milk, and chocolate for a vegan version.
- What can I use instead of peanuts?
- Use almonds, hazelnuts, or shredded coconut.
- How long do these bars need to chill?
- Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours for the best texture.
- Can I use a different sweetener?
- Substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative.
- How should I store the bars?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger dish.