Let’s talk comfort food. What is the best part of a Peanut Butter cookie? With the ease of a bar. Forget carefully scooping and baking dozens of individual cookies – these are delicious.Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: What are some of theAre ready in under an hour, start to finish? They’re kind of like a blondie, but, you know, ten times better because, hello, peanut butter! If you love peanut butter and you like peanuts, prepare to have your world rocked. My kids go absolutely bonkers for them, and honestly, I find myself sneaking a piece (or two) of bread. How do you make a straight from the pan? What is that one recipe that just screams “home”?
What is peanut butter cookie bars?
Think of Peanut Butter cookie bars as the ultimate shortcut to peanut butter cookie bliss. It’s essentially a giant, shareable cookie baked in a square or rectangular pan. Instead of making individual cookies, you press the dough into the pan, bake it until golden brown and slightly gooey, and then cut it into bars. It’s less fussy than traditional cookies, making it perfect for when you want a sweet treat without all the fuss. The texture is what really sets these apart. You get the chewy edges of a regular cookie and the soft, slightly underbaked center that’s just pure peanut butter heaven. It’s a simpler, more relaxed way to enjoy everything you love about a classic peanut butter cookie.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall head over heels for this recipe? We’re talking intense peanut butter goodness with the perfect balance of sweet and salty. What is that flavor that keeps you coming back for more? What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to Make! What are some of the best ingredients in your pantry right now? No chilling required, no fancy equipment needed, just a bowl, pan, and some mixing. Is it cheaper to buy a whole batch of cookies from the store? But it doesn’t end there. These are the most interesting things that happen inPeanut Butter Cookie Bars: What are some examples? are incredibly versatile. You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of jam to customize them to your liking. And, honestly, they are the perfect thing to bring to a potluck.
I’ve made so many batches, and everyone raves about how delicious they are. I even had a friend who doesn’t usually eat sweets tell me that they are irresistible. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and adaptable recipe that will be a hit with everyone, this is it. Compare this to complicated layer cakes or finicky soufflés, and this recipe wins every time. Plus, this one’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages – from toddlers to grandparents, everyone loves a good peanut butter treat!
How do you make peanut butter cookie bars?
Quick Overview
Making these Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: What are some of theis so simple, it’s almost ridiculous. You’ll start by mixing the dry ingredients, then combining the wet ingredients. What is the best way to mix everything together, press it into a pan, bake it until golden, and then devour it! What’s the best part? No complicated steps, no fancy techniques, just straightforward deliciousness. What is special about this method is that it’s specifically designed to create that perfect chewy-yet-soft texture. What is texture that everyone loves? Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip these up any time a craving strikes!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened. Make sure it’s *really* soft for easy mixing! I usually leave mine out for a couple of hours.
* 1 cup granulated sugar
Brown sugar adds a nice molasses flavor. * 1 cup packed light brown sugar
I prefer pure vanilla extract, but imitation works in a pinch.
* 2 large eggs
* 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter. I always use a no-stir variety for convenience.
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour. Spoon and level your flour for the most accurate measurement.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more, to reach desired consistency). I sometimes use almond milk if that’s what I have on hand, and it works just fine!
* 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. If you have an overhang on the sides of a pan, you can line it with parchment paper. I always do this – it’s a lifesaver! How do you cut bars? Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the bars in. What is the best step to take in a day?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to make sure everything is evenly distributed, especially baking soda? How do I make a bar rise properly? I usually whisk for about 30 seconds until it’s all combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. What is a hand mixer? Beat in the vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the Peanut Butter until smooth and combined. Make sure your butter is softened, otherwise, you’ll end up with lumps!
Step 4: Combine
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in tough bars. I usually stop mixing when there are still a few streaks of flour visible and then finish it off. I don’t know why. What is a spatula? Is overmixing the enemy of soft cookies?
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Is it a problem if it comes out with moist How long should I bake a cake? The bars should be slightly soft in the center.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting. How do you prevent frosting from melting and making bars easier to cut? Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
What do you serve as a snack? Cut into squares and serve. I like to cut them into small squares for easy snacking, but you can make them as big or as small as you like.
What should I serve it with?
These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars: What are some of theWhat are some ideas to take your business to the next level?For Breakfast:What’s a good start to the day? I love serving these alongside a fruit salad for balancing breakfast.For Brunch:Arrange the bars on a pretty platter with fresh berries and yogurt. A glass of orange juice or a mimosa would be the perfect accompaniment.As Dessert:Serve these after dinner with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. What are some great side dishes to serve with a glass of milk or hot chocolate?For Cozy Snacks:Enjoy these warm from the oven with a blanket and good book. What’s a good cup of tea with apple cider? What is my favorite thing to have with a glass of cold milk? What’s so comforting about that combination? My kids love them in their lunchboxes as a special treat, and they’re always gonna be at parties and parties. They are so cute! What are some of the best bars to eat?
How do you make a perfect peanut butter cookie bar?
Want to make the best?peanut butter Cookie Bars ever? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years.
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough bars. Mix until just combined, and then stop. I can’t stress this enough!
Ingredient Swaps: You can use different types of peanut butter, like crunchy or natural. Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit runnier, so you may need to add a bit more flour to the batter. I prefer creamy because it makes a smoother bar.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the bars while they’re baking. Ovens can vary, so they may need more or less time. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft.
Glaze Variations: Get creative with the glaze! You can add a pinch of salt, a dash of cinnamon, or even a spoonful of peanut butter for extra flavor.
I’ve also found that using high-quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final product. Splurge on the good vanilla extract and the best peanut butter you can find. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different mix-ins. Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of caramel can take these bars to the next level. The possibilities are endless! Trust me on this one, these little tweaks can really elevate your peanut butter cookie bars from good to amazing!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These peanut butter cookie bars are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store well.
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may dry out a bit after a few days, so it’s best to eat them sooner rather than later.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The bars will become firmer in the fridge, but they’ll still be delicious.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend glazing the bars right before serving for the best results. If you glaze them ahead of time, the glaze may become sticky or dissolve slightly.
I often make a double batch and freeze half for later. It’s so nice to have a sweet treat on hand whenever a craving strikes! When freezing, make sure to wrap the bars really well to prevent freezer burn. And when thawing, be patient and let them come to room temperature slowly. This will help them retain their texture and flavor. I’ve stored these in the freezer for even longer than 2 months, and they still tasted great! Just make sure they’re properly wrapped.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for peanut butter cookie bars. It’s a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Seriously, this recipe is a winner. It’s easy, affordable, and everyone loves it. If you love this recipe, you’re probably a big peanut butter fan, like me. So, be sure to check out my other recipes featuring peanut butter. Maybe my Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is up your alley.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Leave a comment below and let me know if you try it and what variations you make. Happy baking! And don’t forget to share your creations on social media – I’d love to see them!
Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Peanut Butter Creamy
- 0.5 cup Butter Softened
- 1 cup Sugar
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar Packed
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 Eggs
- 1.5 cups Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 0.5 tsp Salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
