Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
If you are a fan of rich, nutty flavors combined with the irresistible charm of chocolate, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These bars perfectly balance creamy peanut butter and melty chocolate chips in a chewy, buttery base that’s easy to whip up any day of the week. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a cozy evening snack, or just craving something sweet with a homemade touch, this recipe delivers that comforting, nostalgic cookie taste in a convenient bar form that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple and straightforward is the secret to these bars’ perfect texture and mouthwatering flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the richness of the peanut butter to the sweet, melty pockets of chocolate chips that pop up in every bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds a creamy, rich base and keeps the bars moist with a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that lends that classic nutty flavor and a smooth texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings in deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the chewiness.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic tone.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure so the bars hold together perfectly when cut.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a subtle rise and tenderness without fluffiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the peanut butter taste.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For those pockets of melty, sweet chocolate that make every bite unforgettable.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This gives the oven plenty of time to reach the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the batter. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and creamy peanut butter until the texture is silky smooth. This step ensures the base of your bars is evenly rich with that luscious peanut flavor.
Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Stir in the packed brown sugar thoroughly to combine the sweetness with your buttery mixture. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is uniform and glossy. These ingredients come together to create the perfect tender and chewy texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to your wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough forms. Avoid overmixing here to keep the bars tender rather than cakey.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Finally, gently fold in the chocolate chips so that they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is the part where your bars start to look and smell like the delicious dessert you’re about to enjoy!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the dough evenly in your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Place it in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still soft to the touch.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This resting time helps them firm up so that when you cut into 12 satisfying bars, they hold their shape beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or chopped peanuts on top just before serving to add an inviting crunch and a pop of additional texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also bring an elegant touch for a special occasion.
Side Dishes
These cookie bars pair wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea. If you want to elevate your treat even more, serve alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, slice the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with small bowls of peanut butter and melted chocolate for dipping. You can also sandwich two bars with a layer of frosting or marshmallow fluff for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This keeps them soft and chewy, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-baked taste long after baking day.
Freezing
Want to save bars for later indulgence? Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated bars in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive their gooey, melty texture. You can also warm them briefly in a 300-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Warning: Be prepared to resist diving in immediately—they’re absolutely irresistible warm!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful extra texture to the bars thanks to the peanut bits. It’s a great option if you prefer a bit of crunch within your chewy bars.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup for cup. Just make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
What if I want a more chocolatey flavor?
If chocolate is your jam, try using dark chocolate chips or mixing in some cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a richer chocolate experience. You can even drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking for extra decadence.
How do I get softer bars?
For an ultra-soft, fudge-like texture, pull the bars out of the oven a minute or two before they look completely set, then let them cool in the pan. Chilling before slicing helps lock in that softness.
Can I substitute the butter with an oil?
Butter is key for flavor and texture in this recipe, but if you must, you can replace it with coconut oil. Keep in mind this may slightly change the taste and firmness, adding a hint of coconut flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe is such a heartwarming, drool-worthy treat that once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It combines the best of both worlds—peanut butter and chocolate—in a simple, fuss-free bar you can bake up anytime. Trust me, making these will bring smiles to your kitchen, your family, and any hungry friend lucky enough to get a bite. So, grab your mixing bowl and get baking; your new favorite dessert is just a few steps away.
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Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars combine rich, creamy peanut butter with sweet chocolate chips for a chewy, decadent dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a soft center and golden edges, these bars deliver classic cookie flavor in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bars easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and fully combined. This creates the base for your cookie bars.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings: Stir in the brown sugar, mixing well to incorporate it evenly. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix gently just until the dough comes together; be careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and fold them into the dough evenly to distribute the chocolate throughout the bars.
- Spread Dough and Bake: Transfer the dough into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set but retains some softness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan, which will help them set properly. Once cooled, cut into 12 bars and serve.
Notes
- For a gooier texture, slightly underbake the bars and chill before slicing.
- Add chopped peanuts if you want extra crunch in the bars.
- Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
