Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

Introduction

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Baked in a single pan and sliced into bars, they’re a fuss-free twist on classic cookies — perfect for peanut butter lovers and ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or cozy nights in.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Peanut butter has been a staple in American homes since the early 1900s, and peanut butter cookies have long held a nostalgic place in many households. Cookie bars emerged as a convenient way to serve cookies without the need to shape individual portions. Combining these two classics resulted in the beloved Peanut Butter Cookie Bar — the ultimate in easy, comforting desserts.

Ingredients Quantity

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings:

½ cup chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups
A drizzle of melted chocolate or extra peanut butter

Optional Additions

Add chopped peanuts for crunch.
Swirl in some raspberry or strawberry jam for a PB&J twist.
Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Stir in mini marshmallows or butterscotch chips for fun variations.

Tips for Success

Do not overbake — bars will firm up as they cool.
Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
For thicker bars, use an 8×8 pan; for thinner ones, use a 9×13.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 or 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
Mix in peanut butter, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the peanut butter mixture.
Spread dough evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips or desired toppings.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set.
Cool completely before cutting into bars. Drizzle with melted chocolate or extra peanut butter if desired.

Description

These bars are the perfect blend of soft cookie texture and intense peanut butter flavor. Slightly crisp on the edges, gooey in the middle, and easily customizable, they’re the ideal treat for any occasion — indulgent yet simple.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 12g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 120mg
Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars take all the best qualities of a classic cookie and turn them into an easy-to-make, satisfying dessert. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or pack them for on-the-go snacking, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recommendation

Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk, hot coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unbeatable dessert experience. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Want a lighter version? Swap half the butter for applesauce, use natural peanut butter, and reduce the sugar. You can even add some oat flour for fiber or fold in dark chocolate for an antioxidant boost — indulgence can still be balanced!