Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (for the cookie dough)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for the bark coating)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for melting chocolate)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas, natural peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 2: Transfer the smooth cookie dough mixture to a medium bowl. Fold in the 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Step 3: Line a baking sheet (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper. Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly onto the parchment paper, forming a layer about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Place the baking sheet in the freezer to chill while you prepare the chocolate coating.
- Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1 cup dark chocolate chips (and optional coconut oil) in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
- Step 5: Remove the chilled cookie dough from the freezer. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the cookie dough layer, spreading it out to cover completely. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or a few extra chocolate chips on top.
- Step 6: Return the baking sheet to the freezer for at least 30-60 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm. Once firm, lift the parchment paper from the pan and break the healthy cookie dough bark into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
- To maintain its delightful texture, store your bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for a longer-lasting treat – perfect for unexpected cravings!
- Since this bark is designed to be a delightful cold treat, skip the reheating! If storing in the freezer, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience before enjoying.
- Enjoy these delightful bark pieces as a guilt-free dessert after dinner, a satisfying afternoon snack, or even crumbled over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!
- For the ultimate "cookie dough" texture, be sure to blend the chickpeas, peanut butter, and other wet ingredients in your food processor until absolutely silky smooth – patience here pays off for a truly satisfying bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small square
- Calories: 190
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 7g