Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, soft, and irresistibly rich cookie bar that combines the creamy magic of peanut butter with the classic comfort of chocolate chips. These Peanut Butter Lovers Cookie Bars are not just a dessert; they're a one-way ticket to pure culinary happiness! Whether you're a peanut butter fanatic or simply someone who appreciates mind-blowing sweet treats, this recipe will transform your baking game and become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for topping if desired.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 12 even squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the bars tender and soft.
- Check for Doneness: Look for golden brown edges and a slightly soft center. A toothpick with a few moist crumbs is perfect.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to help them set and develop their rich, fudgy texture.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Customize Your Bars: Feel free to swap chocolate chips with peanut butter chips or add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for extra decadence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
