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Peanut butter cookie bars served with espresso on a modern glass table.

The Ultimate Guide to Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

BETTY
These peanut butter cookie bars are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they require simple pantry ingredients and minimal effort. Whether served plain, with chocolate drizzle, or layered with caramel, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter or crunchy for added texture
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all purpose flour or gluten free alternative
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Add Ins

  • ½ cup chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup chopped peanuts
  • ¼ cup caramel drizzle

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prep Preheat the oven to 350°F 175°C Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it
  • Mix Wet Ingredients In a large bowl whisk together the melted butter peanut butter brown sugar and white sugar until smooth Add eggs and vanilla extract then mix until fully combined
  • Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl whisk the flour baking soda and salt
  • Mix the Batter Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture Stir until just combined If using add ins like chocolate chips or peanuts gently fold them in
  • Bake Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs
  • Cool & Slice Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack Once completely cool slice into squares and enjoy

Notes

For extra chewiness slightly underbake the bars and let them firm up as they cool
Storage Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks Freeze for longer storage
Dietary Options Substitute gluten free flour for a gluten free version or use coconut sugar instead of refined sugar for a healthier option
Serving Suggestion Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk
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