Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: Soft, Chewy, and Irresistibly Simple

Creamy peanut butter, buttery dough, and a hint of crunch—these cookie bars are a classic comfort treat

Introduction: A One-Pan Wonder for Peanut Butter Lovers

There’s something timeless about peanut butter desserts. Whether it’s cookies, pies, or fudge, that nutty richness always hits the spot. These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are a fuss-free way to enjoy all the flavor of peanut butter cookies—without the scooping, rolling, or batch baking.

Made in a single pan, these bars are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter goodness. They’re perfect for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or cozy nights in. And with just a handful of pantry staples, they come together in minutes.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so deliciously simple:

Base Ingredients:

• Creamy peanut butter (1 cup)
  Adds rich flavor and chewy texture—use shelf-stable for best consistency.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
  Adds moisture and richness—softened for easy creaming.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
  Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.

Optional: Add a splash of maple syrup or brown sugar for deeper flavor.

Dry Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
  Provides structure and chewiness.
• Baking powder (½ tsp)
  Adds a slight lift.
• Salt (¼ tsp)
  Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Tip: Sift dry ingredients for a smoother dough.

Optional Mix-Ins:

• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and aroma.
• Chocolate chips or chopped peanuts (½ cup)
  Add texture and flavor—choose your favorite or mix both.

Optional: Try butterscotch chips, crushed pretzels, or toffee bits for a twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Set oven to 350°F (180°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with softened butter or line with parchment paper.

Tip: Parchment makes lifting and slicing easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl:

• Cream together peanut butter, softened butter, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Add vanilla extract if using.

In a separate bowl:

• Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients.

Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

Fold in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts if desired.

Tip: Dough will be thick—use a spatula to press evenly into pan.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Spread dough evenly in prepared pan, pressing into corners.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until:

• Edges are lightly golden
• Center is set
• Toothpick inserted comes out clean

Let cool completely in pan on a wire rack.

Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt or drizzle with melted chocolate while warm.

Step 4: Cut and Serve

Once cooled:

• Lift bars out of pan (if using parchment) and cut into squares or rectangles.

Serve with:

• Cold milk
• Hot coffee
• Vanilla ice cream

Presentation Tip: Stack bars on a platter and sprinkle with crushed peanuts for a bakery-style look.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Bake sales
• Picnics
• Lunchbox treats
• Weeknight desserts

Yields:

• About 12 bars, depending on size

Tip: Cut smaller for bite-sized party treats or larger for indulgent servings.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Sweet & Salty

Add crushed pretzels and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Double Chocolate

Use cocoa powder in the dough and add chocolate chunks.

Crunchy Peanut Butter

Swap creamy for crunchy and add chopped peanuts.

Banana PB Bars

Add mashed banana for a soft, fruity twist.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and egg substitute.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
• Refrigerate: Store baked bars in airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Freeze bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tip: Wrap individually for grab-and-go snacks.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 12)

• Calories: ~200
• Protein: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~18g
• Fat: ~12g
• Sugar: ~10g
• Sodium: ~120mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These bars are:

• Comfort food approved
• Kid-friendly
• Quick and easy
• Perfect for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are more than just dessert—they’re a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. Whether you’re baking them for a crowd or sneaking one with your afternoon coffee, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.