Peanut Butter Chips
Description
Peanut butter chips are small, pebble-like baking ingredients made from peanut butter and sugar, often with the addition of stabilizers and emulsifiers to maintain their shape. They are designed to hold up under the heat of baking without melting away completely, making them a perfect addition to cookies, brownies, and a variety of other baked goods. Available in a range of sizes, they can be measured in both American (cups, ounces) and European (grams, milliliters) units, ensuring bakers around the world can incorporate them into their recipes with ease.
Common uses
Peanut butter chips are commonly used as an ingredient in various desserts and sweet treats. They add both flavor and texture to the dish they are incorporated into.
Nutritional value
Calories
Typically, a 1-ounce (28 grams) serving of peanut butter chips contains around 140-160 calories.
Protein
Each serving contains about 3-4 grams of protein, varying by brand.
Fat
The fat content is relatively high, with about 8-10 grams per serving, out of which saturated fat may constitute around 5-7 grams.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are present in the range of 15-20 grams per serving, mainly from sugars.
Vitamins
While not a significant source of vitamins, some brands may contain small amounts of vitamin E from the peanuts.
Minerals
Peanut butter chips may provide trace amounts of minerals such as magnesium and potassium, inherent to peanuts.
Health benefits
While peanut butter chips are not typically consumed for their health benefits, they do contain some of the positive aspects of peanuts, such as the presence of protein and healthy fats. However, moderation is key due to their high sugar and fat content.
Potential risks
The high sugar and fat content in peanut butter chips can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, individuals with peanut allergies should avoid them entirely.
Common recipes
They are featured in recipes such as peanut butter chip cookies, brownies, fudge, and pancakes.
Cooking methods
Peanut butter chips can be melted for use in sauces or frostings, or added whole to doughs and batters before baking.
Pairing with other ingredients
They pair well with chocolate, bananas, oats, and various nuts, providing a sweet and savory balance to recipes.
Summary
Peanut butter chips are a delightful ingredient that can add a burst of peanut butter flavor and creamy texture to a plethora of sweet treats. Though not a health food, they are a beloved staple in the pantry of any baker looking to add a twist to classic recipes. While they should be used in moderation, their versatility in the kitchen makes them a favorite around the world.