Description
Enjoy these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, featuring a delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate chips. Easy to prepare, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until the sugars are fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy (another 2-3 minutes).
- Crack in the two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and fluffy.
- Fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula. Optionally, add chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter. Optionally, line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- If using, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top of the batter.
- 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 clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully lift the bars out of the baking dish using the edges of the parchment paper or a spatula.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, cut into squares or rectangles (aim for about 24 bars).
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These bars also freeze well for later enjoyment!
Notes
- For variations, consider adding butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
- For a more decadent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes