Peanut butter cookie bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter combined with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie. Baked in a pan and sliced into squares, these bars are a simpler alternative to rolling out individual cookies, yet they deliver the same delicious taste. Each bite is packed with sweet, buttery goodness and just the right balance of softness and chew, making them a perfect choice for after-school snacks, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dessert.
What makes peanut butter cookie bars especially appealing is their versatility. You can enjoy them plain for a classic peanut butter flavor, swirl in chocolate for a richer twist, or top them with a drizzle of glaze for a bakery-style finish. They store well and are easy to pack up, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying on the go. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a quick dessert that satisfies, these bars are a fuss-free way to enjoy the comforting taste of homemade peanut butter cookies.
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Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter flavor—these cookie bars are quick to make and perfect for sharing!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- (Optional) 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for mix-in or topping
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Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, peanut butter & sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add eggs & vanilla:
- Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract until combined.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet & dry:
- Gradually add dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
- Spread in pan:
- Press dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
- Cool & cut:
- Let bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or rectangles.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
- Swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy for added texture.
- These bars freeze well—wrap tightly and store up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
