Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: Soft, Chewy, and Packed with Chips
A rich peanut butter base studded with chocolate and peanut butter chips—these cookie bars are pure comfort in every bite
Introduction: A Bar That Delivers Big Flavor
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are everything you want in a dessert—easy to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with nostalgic flavor. The combination of creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and two kinds of chips creates a chewy, gooey texture that’s hard to resist. Baked in a single pan and sliced into squares, they’re perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or cozy nights in.
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want something sweet to keep on hand, these bars are a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes these bars so rich and irresistible:
Creamy Base:
- Creamy peanut butter (½ cup)
Adds richness and signature flavor. - Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
Tip: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing.
Sweeteners:
- White sugar (¾ cup)
Adds sweetness and structure. - Light brown sugar (¾ cup)
Adds moisture and a hint of molasses.
Optional: Use dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
- Eggs (2, room temperature)
Bind the dough and add richness. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and depth.
Tip: Room temperature eggs mix more evenly.
Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour (2¼ cups)
Provides structure and chewiness. - Baking powder (1 tsp)
Helps the bars rise slightly. - Salt (½ tsp)
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Mix-Ins:
- Peanut butter chips (1 cup)
Add creamy bursts of flavor. - Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1–2 cups)
Add melty richness—adjust to taste.
Tip: Use mini chips for more even distribution.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Tip: Parchment makes for easy lifting and clean slicing.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl:
- Beat softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
Optional: Use a hand or stand mixer for best texture.
Step 3: Add Sugars
Add:
- White sugar
- Brown sugar
Mix until just combined.
Tip: Don’t overmix—just until incorporated.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in:
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
Beat until smooth.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add to wet mixture.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
Tip: Scrape down sides to ensure even mixing
Step 6: Fold in Chips
Gently fold in:
- Peanut butter chips
- Chocolate chips
Optional: Reserve a handful of chips to press on top before baking.
Step 7: Bake
Press dough evenly into prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until:
- Edges are golden
- Center is set
Use a toothpick to test doneness.
Tip: Slightly underbake for extra chewy texture.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let bars cool in pan for 15–20 minutes.
Slice into squares and serve.
Presentation Tip: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Bake sales
- School lunches
- Dessert trays
- Midnight snacks
Pair with:
- Cold milk
- Coffee
- Vanilla ice cream
Tip: Serve warm for gooey chocolate bliss.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Coconut Crunch
Add shredded coconut and chopped almonds.
Banana Peanut Butter
Add mashed banana and reduce sugar slightly.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter, egg substitute, and dairy-free chips.
Triple Chocolate
Add white chocolate chips and cocoa powder to the dough.
Mini Bars
Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store baked bars in airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Tip: Wrap individually for grab-and-go treats.
Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 24)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Fat: ~12g
- Sugar: ~14g
- Sodium: ~120mg
- Fiber: ~1g
These bars are:
- Kid-friendly
- Comfort food approved
- Crowd-pleasing
- Perfect for gifting
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are more than just dessert—they’re a celebration of classic flavors and easy baking. Whether you’re serving them at a party or sneaking one with your coffee, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.