Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
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 9x13-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.
