INTRODUCTION
Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. These bars combine a soft, buttery cookie base with crunchy Reese’s Pieces and melty chocolate chips. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or a cozy treat at home.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe delivers thick, chewy cookie bars with crisp edges and a soft center. Baking the dough in a pan instead of individual cookies saves time and guarantees even texture. The mix of chocolate and candy gives every bite bold flavor and color.
INGREDIENTS
For the Cookie Bars
¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon fine salt
1 cup Reese’s Pieces candy, divided
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting after baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even texture and proper rise.
4. Form the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed. Mix just until combined, then gently fold in ½ cup Reese’s Pieces and all chocolate chips.
5. Press and Top
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan, pressing firmly into corners. Sprinkle the remaining Reese’s Pieces on top and press lightly so they stick.
6. Bake and Cool
Bake for 20–25 minutes until edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into clean squares.
TIPS FOR PERFECT COOKIE BARS
Do not overmix the dough to keep the bars tender. For thicker bars, use an 8×8-inch pan. Slightly underbaking ensures a soft and chewy center.
VARIATIONS AND ADD-INS
Swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or add chopped peanuts for extra crunch. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking for a bakery-style finish.
STORAGE AND SERVING
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully.
CONCLUSION
These Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars are rich, chewy, and packed with candy and chocolate in every bite. They’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for ranking on Google thanks to their popular flavors and simple method. 🍫🍬