These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a decadent and easy-to-make dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate chips. Soft and chewy in the center, with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges, these cookie bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a party, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookie bars are sure to be a hit.
With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, these bars are a quick and delicious way to satisfy your peanut butter and chocolate cravings. Plus, there’s no need to scoop individual cookies—just spread the dough into a pan, bake, and enjoy!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Bake the Cookie Bars
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Step 3: Slice and Serve
- Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or bars.
- Serve and enjoy the rich, chewy peanut butter and chocolate goodness!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, but you can also use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture.
- Baking Time: Be careful not to overbake these bars. They should be slightly underbaked in the center to maintain their chewy texture as they cool.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent them from falling apart.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Cup Bars: Add chopped peanut butter cups to the dough for extra peanut butter flavor.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cooled bars for an added layer of sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before using, as the oil tends to separate. This will ensure a smoother texture in the cookie bars.
Q: How do I store these cookie bars?
A: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
Q: Can I freeze these cookie bars?
A: Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a simple and delicious way to enjoy the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate. With their soft, chewy texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!
