Hey y’all! If you’re craving something sweet, chewy, and downright irresistible, these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home, these bars bring together the creamy goodness of peanut butter and the melt-in-your-mouth delight of chocolate chips. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make with minimal prep work.
- The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a timeless favorite.
- Perfectly chewy texture with a delightful crunch.
- Great for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- They stay fresh for days, making them ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For a more pronounced peanut flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter. Learn more about the types of peanut butter here.
- If you prefer a more gooey texture, slightly underbake the bars, and they will firm up as they cool.
- Use parchment paper to line your baking dish for easier removal. Find out why this is beneficial here.
Variations
- Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips to suit your taste.
- For a holiday twist, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top before baking.
Required Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
Storage Instructions
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings/Serving Recommendations
Pair these cookie bars with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful treat. They also make a fantastic addition to any dessert platter.
Pro Tips
- Use room temperature eggs to help everything blend more smoothly. Learn more about ingredients at room temperature here.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting for clean-edged squares.
- For a neater cut, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can provide a unique flavor twist.
How can I tell when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.