June 20, 2016

the simplest simple syrup...

...is the one someone else makes for you!


No, it doesn't take much effort to make a simple syrup (hence the name)--just boil equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Isn't it nicer, though, to have someone else do the labor (adding fun flavors while they're at it!)? I think so. I had the good fortune to receive some products from Sonoma Syrup Company to sample, including an orgeat simple syrup and some vanilla bean extract.

School is out for the summer. I know this because I can get to work approximately 39% faster (it helps to not have to dodge huge yellow-orange vehicles with aggressive drivers as I go...). It won't be long until summer vacation is over, though, much to the relief of many parents, I daresay. If you're already planning back-to-school festivities, think about these no-bake bars, which contain enough good stuff to be considered a healthy treat.


If you're looking for more inspiration, check out Sonoma Syrup Company--they have an amazing syrup collection including everything from white ginger to acai black currant! You can also peruse their website to find lots of virgin cocktail recipes and some savory ideas too.

Not Your Average No-Bake Nut Bars
(printable recipe)
Serves 9-12
Ingredients:
Glaze:
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Directions:
Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment or wax paper for easy removal. Set aside.
Lightly toast the oats in a dry pan until just fragrant.
Into a large bowl, add oats, peanuts, peanut butter, honey, almond simple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla bean extract, cinnamon, and salt; stir together until evenly combined.
Pour mixture into pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Press mixture down to compact and place in freezer for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in short bursts in the microwave until smooth.
Pour the glaze over the chilled bars and smooth with an offset spatula.
Garnish as desired, with chopped nuts or salt.
Place in fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

14 comments:

  1. I know this has to be delicious because it's loaded with peanuts!!

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  2. OH... Look at those nuts.... PERFECTION!

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  3. Great for the kids... or the adults! I'm sure I wouldn't be able to stop at just one :)

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  4. Man I just want one of these so badly now. Big mistake reading your blog before dinner Grace!!

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  5. Anything with peanuts and peanut butter works for me! Pass the plate please!

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  6. If it has honey then it must be delicious!

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  7. My kids would devour these beauties!

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  8. Mmmmm....love the chocolate with a sprinkling of salt!

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  9. And, I was just wishing I had a good snack right now! The salt on top looks delicious.

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  10. I cant even tell you how much I want one of these right now. So peanutty perfect!!!

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  11. I'm loving these, Grace, with all the peanuts and coconut oil. Very healthy!
    And they look gorgeous. Great photos!

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  12. Your cookies look great--who wants to fire up an oven in the summer. Syrups sound good too. What fun flavors!

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