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Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12 bars
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peanut butter creamy or chunky
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips milk or semi-sweet

Substitutions and Tips:

  • Use almond or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.
  • Swap chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips.
  • Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for extra flair.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Tip: Lining with parchment ensures easy lifting and clean slicing.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Tip: This step gives the bars a tender, cookie-like texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

  • Fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Spread and Smooth

  • Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Tip: For gooey bars, slightly underbake and let them finish setting as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

  • Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares. Enjoy warm or store for later.

Notes

  • Use Room Temp Ingredients: This helps everything blend smoothly.
  • Customize with Swirls: Drop dollops of peanut butter or jam on top before baking and swirl with a knife.
  • Don't Overbake: They continue to cook slightly as they cool.
  • Cut with a Plastic Knife: It makes neater edges and fewer crumbs.