Warm Introduction
If you grew up sneaking Payday bars from the corner store or out of your lunchbox, you already know the magic: chewy caramel and salty peanuts in the perfect sweet-and-salty balance. The only problem? Traditional Payday bars are sugar bombs. That’s why I had to create this keto-friendly version—a way to relive that nostalgic treat without derailing my low-carb lifestyle. Every bite takes me back to childhood, but this time, I can enjoy it guilt-free.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
This isn’t just another “keto candy.” What makes this special is the real candy-bar experience—that sticky, chewy center wrapped in a crunchy peanut coating. Unlike many sugar-free desserts that taste “diet” or feel flat, these bars are:
- Sugar-free but still sweet thanks to low-carb sweeteners.
- Protein-packed with peanut butter as the base.
- Meal-prep friendly—make a batch and store them for quick grab-and-go snacks.
It’s the perfect combo of comfort food nostalgia and healthy smart eating.
Personal Blogger Note
When I first made these after a particularly rough workout, I swear I closed my eyes after the first bite—it tasted so much like the candy bars I grew up with. But the best part? No sugar crash afterward. Just a satisfying, protein-rich snack that felt like a treat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – To bring all the filling ingredients together. I love using a medium one because it gives me plenty of room to stir without making a mess.
- Silicone spatula – Perfect for scraping every last bit of that peanut butter mixture.
- Small saucepan – For gently melting sweetener and butter to get that caramel-like texture.
- Loaf pan or square pan – Lined with parchment paper, this will give your bars their shape and make removal super easy.
- Sharp knife – For slicing clean, candy-bar-sized pieces once they’re set.
Ingredients with Substitutions
- Unsweetened peanut butter – The heart of the recipe! Go for a natural, creamy version. Swap with almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you want variety.
- Butter or coconut oil – Helps create that chewy caramel-like texture. For dairy-free, coconut oil works beautifully.
- Sugar-free sweetener (erythritol or allulose) – Gives that classic sweetness without the sugar spike. Allulose melts smoother if you want a softer caramel.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
- Sea salt – Enhances the sweet-and-salty contrast Payday bars are famous for.
- Peanuts – The crunchy outer layer! You can substitute with almonds or cashews if you prefer, but peanuts keep it classic.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Line your pan with parchment paper so nothing sticks.
- Make the caramel base: In a saucepan, melt butter (or coconut oil) with sweetener over low heat until dissolved and slightly thickened. Stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread filling into your lined pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
- Add the peanut coating: Sprinkle chopped peanuts generously over the top, pressing them in lightly so they stick.
- Chill in the fridge for about 1–2 hours until firm.
- Slice and enjoy—cut into bar shapes and store for quick snacking.
Health & Nutrition Insights
Traditional Payday bars are loaded with sugar and empty calories, but this version gives you:
- Healthy fats from peanuts and butter.
- Low net carbs, perfect for keto and low-carb lifestyles.
- Protein for satiety, making it more than just a candy—it’s a snack that keeps you satisfied.
Serving + Pairing Ideas
- Pair with black coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Keep one in your gym bag for a post-workout snack.
- Serve as a fun treat at movie night without the sugar crash.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Store in the fridge for up to 7 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months—just thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
- Pro tip: Keep a stash in your freezer for when sugar cravings strike.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes—just use coconut oil instead of butter.
Q: Do I have to use peanuts?
Not at all! Almonds, cashews, or even pecans make fun variations.
Q: How do I keep them from crumbling?
Be sure to press the peanuts into the filling firmly before chilling, and let them set fully before cutting.
Nutrition Breakdown (per serving, 1 bar out of 8)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 6g
- Net Carbs: 3g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Course: Dessert / Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 8 bars
- Calories: 210 per bar
These Keto Payday Candy Bars are proof that you don’t need sugar to satisfy a sweet tooth. They’re quick, crave-worthy, and perfect for keeping your low-carb lifestyle fun and flavorful.
Keto Payday Candy Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and sweetener in a saucepan until smooth.
- Stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and salt.
- Spread mixture evenly into the pan.
- Top with peanuts, pressing them gently into the mixture.
- Chill 1–2 hours until firm.
- Slice into bars and enjoy!
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