Peanut Butter Cookie Bars – The Ultimate Chewy, Nutty Treat!

There’s something truly magical about peanut butter cookie bars. The combination of rich, nutty peanut butter and a soft, chewy cookie base is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. If you love peanut butter cookies but want an easier, no-fuss version, these peanut butter cookie bars are for you!

Baked into a single pan and sliced into squares, they’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!). Whether you’re making these for a weekend treat, a potluck, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try.

SAVE THIS!

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

• Easy to Make – No scooping individual cookies; just mix, spread, and bake!
• Incredibly Chewy & Soft – Thanks to the perfect balance of butter, sugar, and peanut butter.
• One-Bowl Wonder – Fewer dishes = more time to enjoy your treats!
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of caramel!
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for bake sales, parties, or just an everyday snack.

What Do These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars Taste Like?

Imagine the best peanut butter cookie you’ve ever had—now make it even softer, chewier, and more indulgent! These bars are thick and packed with peanut butter flavor, balanced by a slight caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar. If you add mini chocolate chips, you’ll get an extra layer of richness that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these irresistible peanut butter cookie bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – The heart of the recipe, adding richness and flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and a buttery depth.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and structure.
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar – Enhances chewiness with a slight molasses flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base that gives these bars structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps with a slight lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) – Because peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Want to make these peanut butter cookie bars your own? Here are some ideas:

• Crunchy Peanut Butter – If you love texture, swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – For a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
• Peanut Butter Chips – Double the peanut butter goodness!
• Chopped Nuts – Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
• Swirl in Some Jam – For a PB&J-inspired twist!

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined.

4. Mix in the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

5. Fold in the Chocolate Chips (If Using)

If you’re adding chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough for an even distribution.

6. Spread & Bake

Evenly spread the dough into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool & Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them set properly and enhances their chewy texture.

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

These cookie bars are perfect on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, try these serving ideas:

• With a Glass of Milk – Classic and comforting!
• Drizzled with Melted Chocolate – For an extra indulgent touch.
• Topped with Ice Cream – Warm up a bar and serve it with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Paired with Coffee – The nutty flavors go beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or espresso.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

• Don’t Overbake! – They may look slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. Overbaking can make them dry.
• Use Parchment Paper – This makes lifting them out of the pan and cutting them into neat squares much easier.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps everything mix together smoothly.
• Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt – If you love the sweet-salty combo, a little flaky sea salt on top is a game-changer!

How to Store Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

• At Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• In the Refrigerator – Keeps fresh for up to 10 days (let them come to room temperature before serving).
• In the Freezer – Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Stir it well before using, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the best results.

3. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?

You can use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars but increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts – The Perfect Peanut Butter Treat!

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that you’ll find yourself making again and again. They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a chocolate drizzle, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings!

If you love peanut butter desserts, you might also enjoy:

• Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
• Peanut Butter Brownies
• No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to snap a pic and share it on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations!