Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3️⃣ Add the Eggs and Sugar:
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined.
4️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
5️⃣ Stir in the Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the chocolate chips (and chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips if using). Mix gently to avoid overworking the dough.
6️⃣ Spread and Bake:
Spread the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
7️⃣ Cool and Slice:
Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles, and serve!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cookie Bars:
- Don’t overbake: These bars should remain soft and chewy. Check the center with a toothpick, but be careful not to bake too long.
- Use room temperature butter: This helps the ingredients blend more easily and gives a smoother texture.
- Let them cool before cutting: Allow the bars to fully cool to prevent them from falling apart when sliced.
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
- Easy to Make: No need for rolling dough or shaping cookies—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Irresistible Peanut Butter and Chocolate Flavor: The creamy peanut butter paired with the gooey chocolate chips is a perfect match.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re making them for a party, picnic, or just a treat for yourself, these bars are a crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Information (per bar, approx.):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 18g
FAQ About Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and crunch, which is delicious.
Can I freeze the cookie bars?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap the bars tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before serving, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I use dark chocolate chips?
Of course! Dark chocolate chips add a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet peanut butter—totally up to your taste!
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Bars too crumbly?
Ensure you don’t overmix the dough, which can cause the cookies to be dry. Let them cool completely before slicing. - Not as chewy as expected?
Bake just until golden on the edges and a little soft in the center. Overbaking can result in dry cookie bars.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars: Spread a thin layer of your favorite jelly (strawberry, grape, or raspberry) on top of the dough before baking for a PB&J twist.
- Reese’s Pieces Bars: Add a handful of mini Reese’s Pieces or chopped-up Reese’s cups for an extra peanut butter punch.
- Marshmallow Swirl Bars: Add some mini marshmallows or a drizzle of marshmallow fluff for a gooey, fun texture.
Perfect for Every Occasion:
Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars will be the highlight of your dessert table. They’re easy to make, shareable, and guaranteed to satisfy those sweet tooth cravings!
Success with Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:
Chewy, chocolatey, and packed with that signature peanut butter flavor, these bars are the ultimate treat for any peanut butter lover. You’ll be making them again and again—don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Tried this recipe? Snap a pic and tag us—let us see your peanut butter creations!
