If you’re searching for the ultimate easy dessert recipe that combines rich nutty flavor with melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, these Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are the treat you need. Soft, chewy, and bursting with chocolatey goodness, they’re perfect for bake sales, after-school snacks, or a crowd-pleasing party dessert.

Unlike traditional cookies that require scooping and multiple batches, these cookie bars are baked in one pan—making them the ideal time-saving dessert. Each bite balances the creaminess of peanut butter, the crunch of peanuts, and the sweetness of chocolate chips. If you love peanut butter desserts, this will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for weeknight baking or holiday treats.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Bars Recipe

Quick & Easy: No need to roll dough or bake in multiple rounds.
Perfect Texture: Chewy, soft, and slightly crisp around the edges.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Add nuts, candy, or even swirl in more peanut butter.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully for several days.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or gifting.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the star players that make these bars so delicious:

Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds rich flavor and chewy texture.
Unsalted Butter: Creates tenderness and depth of flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps with structure.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Eggs: Bind the dough and provide structure.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives the bars structure.
Baking Powder: Ensures the bars rise slightly and stay soft.
Salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the peanut butter flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Bring melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
Chopped Peanuts (optional): Adds crunch and enhances nutty flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing and fluffier batter.
Line with parchment paper for clean removal and perfect slicing.
Don’t overbake—remove them when slightly soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Chill before cutting for sharp, bakery-style edges.
Toast peanuts before adding for extra flavor.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

Nut-Free Version: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
Extra Gooey: Add ½ cup white chocolate or peanut butter chips.
Double Chocolate: Mix cocoa powder into the flour for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
Holiday Twist: Add red & green M&Ms for a festive dessert.
Healthier Option: Replace half the flour with oat flour and reduce sugar slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with a tall glass of milk for a nostalgic snack.
Cut into small squares for lunchbox treats or party trays.
Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for extra decadence.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap cooled bars individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough, spread into the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Chunky peanut butter adds extra crunch and works beautifully.

Q2: Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
No, they’re best stored at room temperature in an airtight container.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or bake in two pans.

Q4: How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Q5: Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can cut back by ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.

Emily