Description
Enjoy these rich and chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, featuring a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips, with an optional crunch from chopped peanuts. Ideal for satisfying cravings or sharing with friends!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until the sugars are fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy (another 2-3 minutes).
- Crack the eggs into a small bowl, then add them one at a time to the mixing bowl, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix for an additional minute until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts (if using) with a spatula.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang, or greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle additional chocolate chips and chopped peanuts on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares (about 16 squares, or to your preference).
- For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as dried fruit or different types of nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes