Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: A Sweet Treat for Every Occasion!

Photo byAngie Bright

When it comes to comfort baking, few things compare to the delicious simplicity of a peanut butter cookie bar. These treats are a delightful cross between the classic cookie and a soft, chewy bar, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing at a gathering. With their rich peanut butter flavor and tender texture, these cookie bars are easy to whip up and hard to resist.

Imagine biting into a warm, soft bar with a rich peanut butter base and a touch of sweetness that lingers on your palate. The blend of creamy peanut butter and sugar creates a flavor that's both nostalgic and undeniably delicious. If you're a fan of chocolate, adding a cup of chocolate chips can elevate these bars to a whole new level, bringing a delightful contrast to each bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a quick treat to share with friends, these peanut butter cookie bars come together with minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s how to make them.

Recipe: Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 g) creamy or crunchy peanut butter
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220 g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (175 g) chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the bars later.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution.
4. Mix Everything Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them.
5. Spread in Pan: Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the top.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

These peanut butter cookie bars are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a crumbly yet tender texture that makes them simply irresistible. Enjoy them on their own, or pair with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate snack.

Whether you're baking for a special event or just for a cozy night in, these bars are sure to become a favorite. They bring the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, with a homemade touch that makes every bite feel like a treat straight from the heart. Happy baking!

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