Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bites

Few flavor combinations can match the classic pairing of peanut butter and chocolate. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bites are a celebration of that timeless duo, brought together in a buttery, tender dough with rich layers of creamy peanut butter and melty chocolate chips. Part cookie, part candy bar, and entirely irresistible, these bites are the perfect treat for everything from lunchbox surprises to party platters.

What sets these apart from your average cookie is the unique layering method. Instead of folding all the ingredients together, we layer a sweet peanut butter filling and chocolate chips between sheets of buttery dough, then bake to golden perfection. The result is a neat, clean bite that offers the full spectrum of peanut butter-chocolate joy in every square.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bites

• Layered Goodness: A delicious surprise of peanut butter and chocolate inside every bite.
• Customizable Shape & Size: Cut into squares, rectangles, or use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and store for quick desserts or snacks.
• Kid-Friendly: Easy to eat and fun to make with children.
• Elegant Enough for Events: Makes a great addition to dessert trays or cookie swaps.
• No Need for Special Equipment: Just a rolling pin and a baking sheet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  Essential for the rich, soft dough.
• ¾ cup brown sugar
  Adds moisture and a slight caramel note.
• ½ cup granulated sugar
  For sweetness and structure.
• 1 large egg (optional)
  Adds richness and structure, but recipe works without it.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Boosts flavor and aroma.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  Provides the structure and chew.
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  Smooth and spreadable works best.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
  Sweetens and stabilizes the peanut butter filling.
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  Melty, rich chocolate in every bite.
• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water
  For brushing tops and giving a golden finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven.
Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the dough.
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer.

3. Add egg and vanilla (if using).
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. If omitting the egg, proceed to the next step directly.

4. Add the flour.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions.

5. Chill the dough (optional but helpful).
For easier handling, wrap each portion in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

6. Prepare the peanut butter layer.
In a small bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This will be your delicious filling.

7. Roll out the dough.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Try to make it a rectangle for easy layering.

8. Add the peanut butter filling.
Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a slight border at the edges.

9. Add the chocolate chips.
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the peanut butter layer. Press down gently to set them in place.

10. Roll and layer the second half.
Roll out the second dough half to match the size of the first. Carefully lay it over the chocolate chip layer and press lightly to seal the edges.

11. Cut into bites.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to trim the edges (optional for neatness), then cut into bite-sized squares or desired shapes.

12. Prepare for baking.
Place the bites on the lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

13. Brush with egg wash.
Mix 1 egg yolk with 1 tablespoon water and brush the tops of the bites lightly. This helps achieve that beautiful golden color.

14. Bake.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and tops are set.

15. Cool.
Let bites cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Ideas:

• Serve on a platter dusted with powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
• Pair with a tall glass of milk or hot coffee.
• Great for gifting in treat boxes or tins.

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerate if your kitchen is particularly warm.

Freezing:

• Freeze fully baked and cooled bites in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm treat.

Helpful Notes

• Skip the egg? No problem. These still turn out rich and flavorful without the egg.
• Swap-ins: Try crunchy peanut butter for texture or mini chocolate chips for more even distribution.
• Decorate: Drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with cocoa powder for a fancier finish.
• Clean Cutting: Use a ruler and pizza cutter for clean, even squares.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but make sure it’s well mixed and not too oily, or the filling may be runny.

2. Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling is optional but helpful for easier rolling and cleaner layering.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

4. How do I make it egg-free?
The egg in the dough is optional. You can skip it or use an egg substitute. The egg wash can also be replaced with milk for a bit of shine.

5. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
Blend granulated sugar in a food processor until fine, or use honey (reduce slightly) for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bites are the kind of treat you’ll make once and then crave again and again. They’re nostalgic yet elevated, simple yet elegant, and above all, supremely satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, prepping for a week of snacks, or sharing with friends, these layered bites offer all the comfort of a cookie with a bakery-worthy twist.

With just the right balance of rich dough, creamy peanut butter, and melty chocolate, these bites are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Try them once, and they’ll have a permanent spot in your recipe box!