Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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A deliciously chewy and rich treat packed with peanut butter and chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful fusion of classic peanut butter cookies and gooey chocolate chip cookies. These bars boast a soft, chewy texture with a balance of nutty and sweet flavors. Unlike traditional cookies, these bars are baked in a single pan and sliced into squares, making them easier to prepare and serve.

Peanut butter cookies trace their roots back to the early 20th century when peanut farming became widespread in the United States. Chocolate chip cookies, on the other hand, were invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn. The combination of these two classics led to the creation of Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, an innovative take on timeless flavors.

Why These Bars Are a Must-Try

  • Easy to Make: No need for individual scooping—just spread the dough in a pan and bake.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Cut into bars for a convenient snack or dessert option.
  • Rich and Flavorful: The creamy peanut butter pairs beautifully with melty chocolate chips.
  • Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for bake sales, parties, or a cozy night in.

Key Ingredients and Their Role

  • Peanut Butter: Provides a rich, nutty flavor and a soft texture.
  • Chocolate Chips: Adds sweetness and a gooey texture.
  • Brown Sugar & White Sugar: Enhances sweetness and contributes to the chewy consistency.
  • Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Flour: Provides structure and texture.
  • Baking Soda: Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the bars rise properly.
  • Butter: Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat butter, peanut butter, and sugars until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Incorporate Everything: Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  5. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  6. Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let cool before cutting into squares.

Storage and Leftover Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the characteristics of peanut butter cookies?

Peanut butter cookies are known for their soft, crumbly texture, rich peanut flavor, and distinctive crosshatch pattern.

Originally, chocolate chip cookies were created to provide a satisfying and easy-to-make dessert with a balance of crunchy and chewy textures.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for best results.

What is peanut butter chocolate chip cookies’ nutrition?

A single serving typically contains around 250 calories, with a balance of protein, carbs, and fats.

Suggested Recipes

For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.

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