Name: Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2/3 cup tahini (creamy sesame paste); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave (your preferred sweetener); 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (enhances the flavor); 1/2 cup flour (spelt, white, oat, sorghum, or almond flour); 1 1/2 tsp baking soda (helps bars rise); 1/4 cup chocolate chips (plus more for garnish)

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If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of tahini with sweet, melty chocolate chips, look no further! These Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars are not only easy to make but are also packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free treat. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a post-dinner dessert, these bars bring together the comforting taste of chocolate and the unique depth of tahini in every bite.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it as is or customize it to suit your dietary preferences. With a few simple pantry staples, you can whip up these Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars in no time. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can create your own batch at home!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars stands out for several reasons:

– **Nutty Flavor**: The tahini adds a creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
– **Healthier Sweetness**: Using pure maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup allows you to control the sweetness without refined sugars.
– **Simple Ingredients**: The recipe calls for common pantry staples, making it accessible for anyone to try.
– **Customizable**: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

The Essentials

To make these Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2/3 cup tahini – This creamy sesame paste brings depth and richness.
1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave – Choose your preferred sweetener for a touch of natural sweetness.
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract – This enhances the flavor profile of the bars.
1/2 cup flour – Use spelt, white, oat, sorghum, or almond flour based on your preference.
1 1/2 tsp baking soda – This helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
1/4 cup chocolate chips – Plus more for garnish! Choose your favorite variety.

Essential Tools for Success

Mixing Bowls – For combining your ingredients.
Spatula – To mix the batter smoothly.
Baking Pan – A square or rectangular pan works best for these bars.
Parchment Paper – For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Oven – Preheat to ensure even baking.

Step-by-Step: Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the tahini, maple syrup (or honey/agave), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for garnish. This adds extra chocolaty goodness to every bite.

Step 6: Pour and Spread

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for an extra touch.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

In-Season Swaps

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars with seasonal ingredients:

Nut Butters – Swap tahini for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
Sweeteners – Use local honey in the spring or maple syrup in the fall for a seasonal twist.
Mix-Ins – Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or seeds for added texture and flavor.

Little Things that Matter

Here are a few tips that could make a difference in your baking experience:

Ensure your tahini is well mixed before measuring; it can separate in the jar.
For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips or chunks.
These bars taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different type of flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use spelt, oat, almond, or even gluten-free flour. Just be aware that different flours may alter the texture slightly.

Are these bars vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup or agave as your sweetener, these Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars are completely vegan!

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes! You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free spread for a nut-free option.

What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?

If your bars turn out crumbly, it might be due to too much flour or not enough wet ingredients. Try adding a splash of almond milk or water to the mix next time!

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Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details on making these Chocolate Chip Tahini Bars, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these bars are sure to impress. They combine wholesome ingredients and delicious chocolate in a way that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations!