Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars

If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, then these Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars are going to be your new obsession. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie bar that’s packed with creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate chips, and chunks of Snickers bars. It’s like a candy bar and a cookie got together and created the perfect treat. These bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying as a sweet indulgence at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars are not only easy to make, but they also deliver on flavor and texture. The combination of creamy peanut butter and the gooey caramel from the Snickers creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they store well, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or last-minute treats.

Ingredient Notes

• Unsalted Butter (12 tablespoons): Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Room temperature butter helps create a creamy texture.
• Light Brown Sugar (2 cups): This adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, complementing the peanut butter perfectly.
• Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): I recommend using Skippy for its smooth texture and sweet flavor.
• Large Eggs (2, room temperature): Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon): A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): This is the base of the cookie bars, providing structure.
• Old Fashioned Oats (1 cup): Adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): This helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): For an extra chocolatey touch, these chips melt beautifully in the bars.
• Fun Size Snickers Bars (12, halved): These provide the signature Snickers experience with caramel, peanuts, and chocolate in every bite.

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a medium bowl for combining dry ingredients.
• Whisk and Spatula: Use a whisk for incorporating ingredients and a spatula for folding in chocolate chips and Snickers.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Perfect for baking the cookie bars evenly.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Stepwise Method: Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 cups of light brown sugar, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Use a whisk or electric mixer to cream these ingredients together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry into Wet

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and the halved fun-size Snickers bars. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

• Butter: Replace with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
• Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.
• Oats: Quick oats can be substituted for old-fashioned oats if that’s what you have on hand.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

These Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars are incredibly versatile. Feel free to mix in your favorite candy bars or nuts for a personal twist. For a bit of extra indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top once they’ve cooled. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for a longer shelf life.

Make sure to adjust the baking time based on your oven. Every oven can be a little different, so keep an eye on your bars starting around the 25-minute mark. Trust your senses—when they smell amazing and look golden, it’s time to take them out!

Save It for Later

If you’re looking to save this recipe for later, simply bookmark this page or print it out! These Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars are a go-to dessert that you’ll want to come back to time and again. They’re perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.

Your Top Questions

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. They actually taste even better after a day!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Cut the bars into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

What can I substitute for Snickers bars?

You can swap Snickers for any of your favorite candy bars like Milky Way, Twix, or even Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a different flavor profile.

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

Look for a golden brown edge and a slightly soft center. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

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The Takeaway

These Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that will please any crowd. With their rich flavors and chewy texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for a sweet snack, these bars are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every last bite of these delicious cookie bars!