Name: Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 180 g 180g (6oz) unsalted butter, softened (Use unsalted butter for better control of seasoning.); 90 g 90g (scant ½ cup) granulated sugar (Granulated sugar helps to achieve a nice sweet balance.); 250 g 250g (scant 2 cups) plain (all-purpose) flour (All-purpose flour works best for the shortbread texture.); 200 g 200g (7oz) milk chocolate, broken into pieces (Choose a good quality milk chocolate for best results.); 150 g 150g (heaping ½ cup) creamy peanut butter (Creamy peanut butter is recommended for smooth piping.)

Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers are the delightful union of rich, creamy peanut butter and luscious milk chocolate that turn a simple shortbread into an indulgent treat. Ideal for a sweet snack or dessert, these finger-sized delights are irresistible to both children and adults alike, serving as perfect partners with coffee or tea. The sweet aroma that wafts through your kitchen while they bake will have everyone eagerly waiting for their chance to indulge.

Making these treats is a straightforward process, requiring few ingredients and basic techniques that even novice bakers can handle. The combination of buttery shortbread with a decadent chocolate and peanut butter topping creates a delectable blend of flavors and textures that will delight the senses. Each bite carries a satisfying crunch from the shortbread, beautifully tempered by the creamy peanut butter and smooth chocolate, making it a snack perfect for any occasion.

Why make this recipe

Creating Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers enables you to enjoy an exquisite treat that feels luxurious yet is easy enough to whip up in your own kitchen. With just a few ingredients, this recipe allows you to produce a delectable dessert that impresses friends and family without a lot of fuss. The small, finger-friendly portions are perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or just satisfying your sweet tooth at home. You can also personalize the recipe slightly by altering the type of chocolate or adding toppings, making it an incredibly versatile option for many dessert occasions.

The delightful marriage of peanut butter and chocolate is a timeless combo that resonates with many dessert enthusiasts. This combination not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a touch of nostalgia that many people associate with childhood treats. Homemade shortbread is a classic base that brings a buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the smoothness of melted chocolate. Creating these fingers is also a fun activity to do with kids or friends, making the baking process an enjoyable experience rather than just a chore.

How to make Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers

The journey to create Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers begins with the shortbread base, which is surprisingly simple yet remarkably delicious. Start by preparing your baking tin; lining it with nonstick baking paper helps with easy removal once your treats are ready. Combining softened butter with sugar and flour is next, where you’ll want to mix them together using your fingertips until you achieve a crumbly texture. It’s important to press the mixture evenly into the tin to create a flat surface, which promotes even baking and perfect portions later on.

Bake the shortbread until golden, and allow it to cool completely in the tin, making sure to be patient as this crucial step ensures the texture remains crumbly and provides the perfect backdrop for the creamy toppings to come. While the shortbread cools, you can prepare the decadent chocolate layer. Melting the milk chocolate is a simple process but be mindful to do it gradually to avoid any burning. Once the shortbread is cool, it’s time to cut it into long fingers. Using a disposable piping bag filled with creamy peanut butter, you can elegantly pipe the peanut butter atop each shortbread piece, and you may want to smooth the edges using a knife or spoon for a polished look.

The final touch is the indulgent chocolate coating that enhances both presentation and flavor. Dip the bottom of each finger into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them on a cooling rack. Pour the remaining chocolate over the tops to achieve full coverage, making these treats not only delicious but visually appealing as well. With a little patience, allow them to set and voilà! You have created the perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers.

Ingredients

180g (6oz) unsalted butter, softened
90g (scant ½ cup) granulated sugar
250g (scant 2 cups) plain (all-purpose) flour
200g (7oz) milk chocolate, broken into pieces
150g (heaping ½ cup) creamy peanut butter

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/Gas mark 4. Line a 20cm (8in) square baking tin with nonstick baking paper.
Make the shortbread: put the butter, sugar, and flour in a large bowl and mix with your fingertips until fully combined (crumbly). Press evenly into the prepared tin and level the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until light golden brown. Cool completely in the tin (about 1 hour).
Set a cooling rack over a sheet of baking paper. Melt the milk chocolate.
Cut the cooled shortbread into 1.5 x 10cm (½ x 4in) fingers to make 26.
Put the peanut butter into a disposable piping bag, snip a 1cm (scant ½in) opening, and pipe over the top of each finger. Smooth the edges with the side of a knife or the back of a spoon.
Dip the bottom of each finger into the melted chocolate, then place on the rack.
Pour over the remaining chocolate to fully cover, letting excess drip off.
Leave to stand for 1 hour until set.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Baking Time: 25 minutes

• Chilling Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: 130 minutes

• Servings: 26

How to serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers

Serving these Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers can be as elegant or as casual as you desire. They are perfect for a delightful afternoon tea with friends, paired beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee that complements the sweetness of the peanut butter and chocolate. Present them on a decorative platter, and you can even dust the top with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or drizzle additional chocolate for added flair.

If hosting a party, consider showcasing them on a dessert table, alongside other treats, to create a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike. They can also make wonderful packed snacks for long car rides, school lunches, or when you’re on the go. Just be sure to pack them neatly to maintain their shape and prevent them from breaking apart.

How to store Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers

Storing Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers is simple and ensures you can enjoy their deliciousness for up to a week. After the chocolate has fully set, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Make sure to layer them with parchment paper or wax paper between layers if you’re stacking them, as this prevents sticking and helps maintain their shape.

Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as heat can cause the chocolate to soften. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it may be a good idea to refrigerate them; however, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.

Tips to make Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers

For those looking to perfect their Peanut Butter Chocolate Shortbread Fingers, consider the following tips. Firstly, ensure that your butter is at room temperature; this will incorporate more easily into the flour and sugar, yielding a smoother batter. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough texture instead of the desired crumbly shortbread.

Experimenting with different types of chocolate can lead to exciting flavor variations as well. Dark chocolate provides a more intense flavor, while white chocolate can add a creamy sweetness that balances the peanut butter’s richness. Additionally, feel free to incorporate toppings such as sea salt flakes over the chocolate layer to provide an interesting contrast to the sweetness. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, adding chopped nuts into the shortbread dough or sprinkle over the chocolate layer can enhance the texture beautifully.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 230 kcal

• Protein: 3 g

• Carbohydrates: 21 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 9 g

• Sodium: 50 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

A: Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and can enhance the nutty flavor if you prefer a bit of crunch in your treat.

Q: How long can I store the shortbread fingers?

A: The shortbread fingers can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

Q: Can I freeze these shortbread fingers?

A: Absolutely! You can freeze the shortbread fingers for up to three months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a well-sealed freezer bag before freezing.