Romanian Chocolate Peanut Bars

Ingredients

In this Romanian adaptation, we infuse the Scotcheroos with a touch of Romanian flair. While the original recipe uses crispy rice cereal, we substitute it with crushed walnuts for a distinct Romanian twist. Additionally, we incorporate local honey to enhance the sweetness and add a subtle floral note. These modifications give the bars a unique texture and flavor profile that reflects the essence of Romanian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Scotcheroos, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) corn syrup 1 cup (240ml) corn syrup
• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups (100g) crushed walnuts 4 cups (100g) crushed walnuts
• 6 cups (360g) crispy rice cereal 6 cups (360g) crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (240ml) honey 1 cup (240ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 30g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. 2.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth.
3. 3.
   Add the crushed walnuts, crispy rice cereal, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Press the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to flatten it evenly.
5. 5.
   In a separate saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and honey over low heat, stirring until smooth.
6. 6.
   Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter mixture in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. 7.
   Allow the bars to cool and set at room temperature for about 2 hours, or refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
8. 8.
   Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Make sure to crush the walnuts into small pieces to ensure a consistent texture in the bars.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more indulgent variation, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.
• If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the amount of crispy rice cereal and increase the amount of crushed walnuts.
• Experiment with different types of nut butter, such as almond or cashew, for a unique flavor twist.

Serving advice

Serve these Romanian Chocolate Peanut Bars as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair perfectly with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

For an elegant presentation, dust the bars with powdered sugar or drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.