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Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Emily

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

Soft, chewy, and packed with peanut flavor, these cookie bars combine creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, and a buttery base for the perfect treat to share or enjoy anytime.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230

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 crunch, add the optional peanuts. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a bakery-style finish. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.