Chocolate Walnut Plum Cookie Bars

Ingredients

• • 500 g (17.63 ounces) cookies, crushed
  • 120 g (4.23 ounces) walnuts, chopped
  • 70 g (2.46 ounces) dried plums, finely chopped

• • 250 ml (8.45 fl oz) milk
  • 120 g (3.52 ounces) sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

• • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 150 g (5.29 ounces) butter, melted
  • 160 g (5.64 ounces) chocolate (any variety), melted

• 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) vegetable oil
• 50 g (1.76 ounces) peanuts, chopped

Directions

1. 1. Prepare the Base
      • Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
      • In a large bowl, mix the crushed cookies with the chopped walnuts and plums.

1. 1. Make the Chocolate Syrup
      • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
      • Add the melted butter and continue stirring until well combined. Remove from heat.

1. Combine the Mixture
   • Pour the chocolate syrup over the cookie mixture and mix until everything is evenly coated.
2. Form the Bars
   • • Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper.
   • Transfer the mixture to the dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly with a spatula.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
   • • Melt the chocolate with the vegetable oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
   • Pour the melted chocolate over the cookie mixture and spread it evenly.
4. Add Toppings
   • • Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the chocolate glaze. Press gently to ensure they stick.

5. Chill and Slice
   • • Refrigerate the dish for at least 2-3 hours or until the mixture is firm.
     • Once set, remove from the dish, slice into bars, and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert.
• Wrap in parchment paper and gift as a homemade treat.

Cooking Tips

• • Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a balanced flavor in the glaze.
  • Ensure the cookie mixture is firmly packed to prevent crumbling when sliced.
  • Substitute walnuts and plums with other nuts or dried fruits for variety.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
  • Plums: Rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars.

• Cocoa: Provides flavonoids, which have heart-health benefits.