Nutcracker Bars

In the NutriGuide test kitchen, Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas refined this classic Nutcracker Bars to celebrate vibrant, wholesome ingredients. By prioritizing aromatic layering and precise thermal control, this recipe achieves remarkable culinary depth while preserving natural micronutrients and wholesome texture.

At NutriGuide, our mission is to ensure that home cooking is both accessible and culinary-grade. When executing Nutcracker Bars, focus on fresh aromatics, dry surface contact for proper searing, and allowing the food to rest before serving.

• 1/3 cup butter flavored shortening
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup butter flavored shortening
• 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate
• chips

Chef's Sourcing & Quality Tips:

• Produce & Aromatics: Always use fresh whole aromatics and seasonal herbs rather than dehydrated powders when possible.
• Cooking Oils: Utilize cold-pressed oils with appropriate smoke points such as extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.
• Salt & Seasoning: Season from a modest height above the pan to ensure an even, uniform crystalline dispersion.

Follow these sequential steps with careful attention to sensory cues and cooking temperatures:

Step 1: Technique & Execution

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C)

Step 2: Technique & Execution

Grease a 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking pan

Step 3: Technique & Execution

To make base, cream 1/3 cup butter flavored shortening and 1/2 cup peanut butter in large bowl at medium speed in an electric mixer

Step 4: Technique & Execution

Blend in brown sugar

Step 5: Technique & Execution

Beat in eggs one at a time until creamy

Step 6: Technique & Execution

Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt in a small bowl