Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are a rich and chewy treat loaded with nutty, buttery goodness. These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and brown sugar to create a soft yet slightly crispy texture on the edges. Perfect for snacking, dessert, or even gifting, they’re easy to make and require simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed plain, drizzled with chocolate, or layered with extra crunch, these bars are pure comfort baked into every bite!
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- ½ cup crushed peanuts or walnuts
- Drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter & Sugars: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, until well combined.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
Step 3: Customize & Bake
- Fold in chocolate chips or crushed peanuts if using.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool & Slice
- Let the cookie bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares or bars.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for extra indulgence.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.
- Serve with milk, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookie Bars:
- For softer bars, reduce baking time slightly and let them cool in the pan.
- Use chunky peanut butter for extra texture.
- Substitute half the flour with oat flour for a nutty twist.
- Pair with dark chocolate drizzle for a sweet-salty balance!
These peanut butter cookie bars are an effortless yet indulgent treat. Would you add anything special, like a layer of peanut butter frosting or a sprinkle of sea salt? 🍪✨