Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter creamy or chunky
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ 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.