Peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars​

Peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars are a classic treat that brings together two well-loved flavors in one easy, satisfying dessert. These bars are soft and chewy in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and packed with chocolate chips that melt into the warm peanut butter base. They’re simple to make and perfect for everything from weeknight desserts to casual get-togethers.

What I really liked about this recipe is how straightforward it is no mixer needed, no complicated steps, and no chilling required. The dough comes together in one bowl, and the results are consistently great. The texture hits that sweet spot between a cookie and a brownie, and the flavor is rich without being overly sweet. I also appreciate how easy it is to customize with different add-ins or toppings depending on the occasion.

Why These Bars Are More Than Just a Cookie in a Pan

What sets these peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars apart from every other dessert in your rotation? It’s all about balance and simplicity. This isn’t one of those dry, crumbly bars that disappoint after the first bite. Instead, it’s soft in the middle, golden on the edges, and every square bursts with melty chocolate and creamy peanut butter.

Here’s what makes this recipe special:

• Foolproof texture. Thanks to the combo of brown sugar and butter, you get the perfect chew every time no dry crumbs, no dense slabs.

• No dough chilling required. While many cookie recipes need extra time for chilling, these bars skip that step without sacrificing quality.

• One bowl, minimal cleanup. You’re not pulling out half your kitchen to make this. Just mix, spread, and bake.

• Flexible with mix-ins. From dark chocolate chunks to chopped peanuts, the base is forgiving and open to endless spins.

What You’ll Need to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Core Ingredients

Let’s break down the heart of this recipe. Each ingredient in these peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars is doing important work behind the scenes.

• Peanut Butter (Creamy): For that smooth, nutty base. Stick to classic creamy peanut butter for the best texture and spreadability. Natural varieties can be a bit too oily and affect structure.

• Butter (Unsalted) – Adds richness and helps create that golden edge we all love.

• Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar:  Brown sugar brings moisture and chewiness, while white sugar adds structure and sweetness. Together, they’re a dream team.

• Eggs:  The glue of your dough. They hold everything together and keep your bars tender.

• All-Purpose Flour:  It’s reliable, accessible, and creates the perfect crumb for cookie bars.

• Vanilla Extract : Don’t skip it. It deepens the flavor of both peanut butter and chocolate.

• Baking Powder & Salt : To lift the dough just slightly and balance out the sweet.

Optional Additions

While the base recipe is already a hit, optional add-ins allow you to get creative based on what you’re craving or what’s in your pantry.

• Chopped Peanuts:  For added crunch and contrast. Toast them for extra flavor.

• Sea Salt Flakes:  Sprinkled on top just before baking, these elevate the flavor and add a gourmet touch.

• White Chocolate or Butterscotch Chips: Swap out some (not all!) of the chocolate chips for a fun twist. Or go big with inspiration from these chocolate-covered strawberry brownies a great example of how chocolate pairings can elevate a dessert.

• Caramel Swirl or Nutella:  A couple of spoonfuls swirled through the top before baking takes these to another level.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by lining an 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave a bit hanging over the edges this makes it easier to lift the bars out later. Then, lightly grease the paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), giving it enough time to hit that sweet spot.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until smooth and fluffy. This step isn’t just about mixing it’s where the base texture of your bars is built. Then add the peanut butter, stirring until fully combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet mixture. Stir just until combined don’t overmix or you risk tough bars.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Now the fun part. Fold in your chocolate chips gently, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. At this point, you can also add in your chopped peanuts or white chocolate chips if using.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Pour the dough into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth out the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on pan size. The center should look just slightly underbaked that’s how you get that soft, chewy interior.

My Best Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Tips from Years of Baking

These peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars have seen countless tweaks in my kitchen, from rushed weeknights to careful holiday prep. Here are the hard-earned lessons and expert baking tips that make all the difference.

Don’t Overbake-Slightly Under is Just Right

One of the biggest game-changers is knowing when to take them out of the oven. They should still look a bit soft in the center when you pull them carryover heat will finish the baking process. Overbaking leads to dryness and crumbly texture.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold butter or eggs can cause uneven mixing, especially if you’re not using a mixer. Bringing ingredients to room temperature helps everything blend better and gives you a smoother dough.

Rest Before Slicing

It’s tempting to dig in right away, but these bars need time to firm up. Let them cool completely before slicing, or you’ll end up with gooey edges and messy pieces.

Mix Chips and Chunks

Don’t stick to just one type of chocolate. A mix of semi-sweet chips and dark chocolate chunks adds depth. The chips melt evenly while chunks give you that dramatic, gooey bite.

Toast Add-ins First

Toasting nuts brings out extra flavor. Same goes for ingredients like coconut or oats just like in these no-bake peanut butter oat cups.

Variations on Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, you’ll see just how versatile peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars can be. Whether you’re baking for someone with dietary needs or just feeling creative, here are some variation ideas that work beautifully with this dough.

Gluten-Free Version

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. To prevent crumbly texture, add an extra egg yolk or a tablespoon of milk to increase moisture. Just remember to check that your peanut butter and chocolate chips are gluten-free too.

Vegan-Friendly Swap

Going egg- and dairy-free? Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), plant-based butter, and vegan chocolate chips. The result is still rich, chewy, and indulgent.

Healthier Take

Looking for a less indulgent option? Use natural peanut butter, swap brown sugar with coconut sugar, and try almond flour instead of all-purpose. You’ll end up with a slightly nuttier flavor and a softer texture.

Kid-Friendly Additions

For an after-school twist, fold in mini marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles, or mini M&Ms. These additions not only make them fun to eat but also add color and texture variety.

The Best Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

There’s no wrong time or way to enjoy peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars, but how you serve them can take the experience up a notch. Whether you’re plating them for guests or sneaking a square from the fridge, here are some easy ways to elevate the moment.

Serve Them Fresh and Warm

Right out of the oven, these bars are gooey, melty, and impossible to resist. If you’re serving them the same day you bake, warm them slightly just before presenting ten seconds in the microwave is plenty. Pair with a cold glass of milk, and you’ve got a nostalgic treat that satisfies every time.

Dress Them Up as Dessert

Hosting a dinner or brunch? Stack a few squares and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. The heat from the bar will soften the ice cream just enough for that melt-in-your-mouth contrast. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.

Perfect for Gifting or Lunchboxes

These cookie bars travel well, which makes them ideal for holiday boxes, bake sales, or midweek lunchbox surprises. Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and tie with twine for a rustic, homemade vibe that always impresses.

Common Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even the best bakers hit a snag from time to time. The good news? Most mistakes with peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars are easy to spot and even easier to fix.

Bars Turned Out Dry?

This is almost always from overbaking or measuring too much flour. Flour should be spooned into the measuring cup and leveled with a knife never scooped directly. Also, pull the bars from the oven when the center still looks slightly soft.

Too Greasy or Oily?

If your bars came out with a slick top or greasy texture, it could be too much butter or an overly oily peanut butter. Stick to regular creamy peanut butter instead of natural versions, which tend to separate and throw off the balance.

Didn’t Set in the Middle?

If the bars feel too underdone or won’t hold their shape, either the pan size was too small or they simply needed a few more minutes in the oven. Always use the pan size specified in the recipe, and remember that baking times vary slightly by oven.

Uneven Texture or Crumbly Edges?

Uneven mixing is often the culprit here. Make sure all ingredients especially butter and eggs—are at room temperature. And don’t overmix once the flour goes in, or you’ll develop too much gluten.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?

Yes, you can but keep in mind that natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and less stable. If you go this route, stir it thoroughly before measuring and reduce the butter slightly to prevent greasy bars.

What kind of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, but dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even chocolate chunks all work great. A mix of two types adds depth and richness.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Not at all. One of the perks of this recipe is that there’s no chilling required. You can go straight from mixing to baking and still get soft, chewy results.

Can I freeze peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars?

Definitely. Let them cool completely, then slice and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temp or warm in the microwave before serving.

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