Whole Grain Peanut Butter Patties (Cookie Bars): A Higher Fiber Take on a Classic Treat
If you love the irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate, you're in for a treat! These Whole Grain Peanut Butter Patties are a wholesome, fiber-rich twist on the beloved cookie, made even simpler by baking them in a bar form. Using golden wheat flour in the shortbread layer, this recipe not only enhances flavor but also boosts the fiber content, making these bars a more nutritious indulgence. Best of all, their streamlined preparation means you can enjoy homemade peanut butter patties with less time in the kitchen and more time savoring each delicious bite.
Why Choose Whole Grains?
Traditional shortbread is typically made with refined white flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients. By swapping in golden wheat flour, a finely milled whole grain option, you add a subtle nuttiness while retaining the crisp, buttery texture shortbread is known for. Unlike standard whole wheat flour, golden wheat flour has a lighter color and milder taste, making it perfect for those new to whole grain baking. Plus, whole grains are packed with fiber, which supports digestion, helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
In this recipe, golden wheat flour provides about 3 grams of fiber per serving, compared to the negligible fiber content in conventional shortbread. That means you're getting a satisfying sweet treat with a little extra nutrition boost!
The Simplicity of Cookie Bars
While traditional peanut butter patties require rolling, cutting, and dipping each cookie individually, this recipe takes the hassle out of the process by baking everything as a single sheet. Once cooled, the bars are simply cut into squares, making this an easy, mess-free way to enjoy the flavors of a classic peanut butter patty.
Here’s why this method is a game changer:
- Less prep time – No need to roll and cut individual cookies.
- No dipping mess– The chocolate layer is spread directly on top.
- Easy storage – These bars keep well in the fridge or freezer.
Customizing Your Peanut Butter Patties
Want to make these even more nutritious or fit different dietary needs? Try these variations:
Gluten Free: Swap golden wheat flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend [Note I have not recipe tested this recipe with GF flour blends and different flours will yield different results]
Crunchy Twist: Add crushed peanuts to the peanut butter layer for extra texture.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate. [Note I have not recipe tested this recipe with plant based butters and different baking fats will yield different results]
Storing & Freezing Instructions
These bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to three months—just let them thaw for a few minutes before biting in!
Final Thoughts
With their rich peanut butter flavor, crisp shortbread, and decadent chocolate topping, these Whole Grain Peanut Butter Patties are an easy, fiber-filled treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. By using golden wheat flour, you’re adding whole grain goodness without sacrificing the classic taste you love. Plus, with the time-saving bar format, making a batch of these couldn’t be simpler. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this wholesome take on peanut butter patties is sure to be a hit!
Give these cookie bars a try and let me know what you think—do you love the whole grain twist? Share your creations with me on social media!
Whole Grain Peanut Butter Patties (Cookie Bars): A High-Fiber Take on a Classic Treat
These Whole Grain Peanut Butter Patties take a fiber-rich twist on the classic treat by using golden wheat flour in the shortbread layer for added nutrition and a subtle nutty flavor. Baked in a convenient cookie bar format, they eliminate the hassle of rolling and dipping, making them a quick and mess-free option. With layers of crisp shortbread, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate, these bars offer the perfect balance of indulgence and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy a satisfying sweet treat with a boost of whole grain goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 sticks softened butter, unsalted
- 130 grams (or 1 cup) powdered sugar
- 210 grams (or 1 + 3/4 cups) of golden whole wheat flour
- 3 ounces of dark chocolate (I like 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 3 T maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350*F
- In the bowl of a stand mixer or a stand alone bowl with a hand mixer, cream together the butter and powdered sugar. Slowly add in the golden whole wheat flour.
- If the cookie dough appears dry and crumbly, do not worry - it will stick together as we continue.
- Place the cookie dough contents into a parchment paper lined 8x 12 inch baking dish.
- Use your hands to press the cookie dough into a flat layer in the pan.
- Bake cookie layer at 350*F for 25-30 minutes or until golden. Let cool on wire rack.
- Mix peanut butter and maple syrup together in a bowl using a whisk. Continue to mix until all combined.
- Spread peanut butter layer over cooled cookie bar layer.
- Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second intervals until smooth and shiny.
- Pour on top of peanut butter layer of the cookie bars.
- Place entire pan in the fridge to set for at least 1 hour. Slice and enjoy!
- Store in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
357Fat
24 gSat. Fat
13 gCarbs
32 gFiber
3 gNet carbs
29 gSugar
17 gProtein
5 gSodium
51 mgCholesterol
41 mgThe nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
