If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, look no further than Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! These bars are creamy, indulgent, and oh-so-easy to whip up, making them the perfect family dessert. I still remember the first time my kids and I made these together after school; the aroma of melting chocolate filled the kitchen, turning it into our own little haven of happiness. They are ready in less than 30 minutes and will have everyone begging for more. If you enjoy these, you’ll also want to check out my delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies which are just as easy and delightful. Let’s dive into this amazing recipe!
What is Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?
So, what’s in a name? You might wonder why these delectable delights are called Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Aren’t they just cookie squares? Well, yes, but calling them “bars” gives them a fun twist, almost like a fancy dessert. Plus, who wouldn’t want to wow their friends with a delicious dessert that’s as easy as pie—well, easier? Remember, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these bars are sure to win over anyone’s affection. Ready to make your own batch?
Why You’ll Love This
There are three big reasons you’ll fall in love with Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. First, they’re incredibly easy to make; you can have them whipped up and in the oven in just 15 minutes. Next, they save you money because making them at home is way cheaper than buying pre-made treats. Lastly, the combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate chips is simply unbeatable! If you love brownies or even classic chocolate chip cookies, then you’ll adore these bars. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake — you won’t regret it!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is a piece of cake… or should I say, a piece of bar! The tasty blend of flavors, alongside the gooey texture, makes this recipe incredibly satisfying. With a prep time of about 15-20 minutes and a baking time of just 20-25 minutes, it fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup salted butter (170 g)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (128 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (318 g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (284 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan (9×13 inch works great).
- Cream the Butters: In a mixing bowl, combine the salted butter and creamy peanut butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Sugar: Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the packed brown sugar and vanilla extract until combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the peanut butter mixture until just combined.
- Spread in the Pan: Pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Slice: Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Cut them into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
What to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars With
These delicious bars pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of hot chocolate for a delightful treat. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love. For a fun twist, try adding some fresh fruit or nuts as toppings when serving!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to mix in some dark chocolate chips or M&Ms if you’re looking to change things up! You can also switch the creamy peanut butter for chunky if you like that extra crunch.
- Timing Adjustments: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different! You want the edges to be slightly golden, while the center remains soft.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid over-mixing the batter once you add the flour; this can lead to tough bars. Just mix until combined!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but it may affect the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter can be more oily.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What can I add for an extra crunch?
Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can be added into the batter for some extra crunch!
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a fantastic way to treat yourself and your loved ones. They’re simple, satisfying, and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients and make a batch soon! Happy baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter (170 g)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (128 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (318 g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (284 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, beat the salted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into bars. Enjoy!
Notes
Substitute creamy peanut butter with chunky for added crunch. Add chopped nuts or use dark chocolate chips for a flavor variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
