Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars

Indulging in the rich combination of peanut butter and chocolate is not just a treat; it’s a moment to savor. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars are a delightful blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate chunks, and a soft, chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party or just looking for a comforting dessert to enjoy at home, these bars are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into why these cookie bars are a must-try and how to make them perfectly.

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. The creamy richness of the peanut butter pairs beautifully with the bittersweet chocolate chunks, creating a perfect balance of flavors. These cookie bars are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to serve on any occasion. Home bakers rave about their chewy texture and the delightful aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying with a glass of milk on a cozy evening.

Ingredient List

To whip up these delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter, heaping (like Jif or Skippy; do not use homemade)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt, optional and to taste
• 6 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped (recommended: Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Pound Plus Bar, 54%)

What’s in the Gear List

Before you start baking, gather the following essential tools:

• 9×13 inch baking pan – ideal for cookie bars.
• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk – to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
• Rubber spatula – perfect for scraping down the sides and mixing the batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons – ensure accurate measurements for the best results.
• Cooling rack – to let the cookie bars cool evenly.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars: How It’s Done

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making these scrumptious cookie bars.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the large egg, vanilla extract, and the heaping cup of creamy peanut butter. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and optional pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the roughly chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Looking to customize your cookie bars for a special occasion? Here are some delightful variations to consider:

• Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or walnuts, for an extra crunch.
• Mix in festive sprinkles for a fun holiday touch.
• Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
• Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For perfectly chewy cookie bars, do not overbake.
• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or even white chocolate.
• If you prefer a stronger peanut butter flavor, add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter to the batter.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To enjoy your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars for days to come, follow these storage tips:

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the bars, where they can last up to 2 weeks.
• These cookie bars can also be frozen! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Popular Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter can be substituted for creamy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cookie bars.

What can I use instead of chocolate chunks?

If you don’t have chocolate chunks, chocolate chips work perfectly as a substitute! You can use semi-sweet, milk, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. They might look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you loved these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars, you might also enjoy:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
• Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
• Peanut Butter Cup Brownies

Final Bite

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a warm hug in a bar form. With their rich flavors and chewy texture, they are bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying them on a quiet evening or sharing them with friends, these cookie bars will bring joy to every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the bliss of homemade cookie bars that everyone will love.