Peanut Butter Bars are a delectable treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate into a satisfyingly chewy bar cookie. This recipe, which can be prepared in just 35 minutes from start to finish, is a favorite among dessert enthusiasts and families alike. With a prep time of only 15 minutes and a quick baking period of 20 to 25 minutes, these bars are ideal for those craving a sweet indulgence in under an hour.
To embark on this culinary journey, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the recipe. In a mixing bowl, begin by creaming together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar with the creamy peanut butter until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved. This step lays the foundation for the rich flavor profile that defines these bars. Then, add in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring that they are thoroughly incorporated into the mixture to enhance the overall taste and texture.
Next, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, quick-cooking oats, baking soda, and salt. These ingredients not only provide structure to the bars but also contribute to their delightful chewiness and texture. Once combined, gradually stir the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until a cohesive dough forms.
Now, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a greased 13x9x2 inch baking pan. Spread the dough evenly into the pan, ensuring that it reaches all corners for uniform baking. As a final touch, sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate chips over the top of the dough. The chocolate chips will melt into gooey pockets of sweetness as the bars bake, adding an irresistible contrast to the peanut butter base.
Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bars are lightly browned and set. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they reach the perfect level of golden perfection without overcooking. Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar with creamy peanut butter and milk until a smooth and creamy icing is formed. This luscious icing adds an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence to the bars, elevating them to irresistible heights.
After the bars have cooled slightly, drizzle the icing over the top using a spoon or piping bag, allowing it to cascade in tantalizing ribbons across the surface. This final step not only adds visual appeal but also infuses each bite with a burst of creamy sweetness.
Once the bars are fully cooled and the icing has set, it’s time to slice them into squares and indulge in their irresistible flavors. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack, after-dinner treat, or shared at gatherings with friends and family, these Peanut Butter Bars are sure to delight taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
With a perfect balance of sweetness, chewiness, and richness, these bars are a testament to the timeless appeal of classic flavors and simple yet satisfying desserts. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these irresistible Peanut Butter Bars and experience the joy of homemade goodness in every bite.
