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Peanut Butter Cookie Bars Easy Dessert Recipe
Emily

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are chewy, rich, and packed with nutty flavor, melty chocolate chips, and an optional crunch of peanuts. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or an easy weeknight dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Bars, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts, if using.
  6. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Notes

For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars. Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a less sweet version. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.