When I first bit into a perfectly soft Peanut Butter Bar, it felt like a warm hug after a long day. The sweet and salty combination of creamy peanut butter with a rich chocolate frosting has an uncanny ability to lift my spirits. I often whip these up when I need a quick dessert that will impress my friends or when I simply want to treat myself after battling the mundane routine of everyday meals.
With just a handful of pantry staples, these bars are both simple to make and wildly satisfying, making them a delicious remedy for anyone feeling tired of takeout. The delightful smell of vanilla and butter filling the kitchen will have your neighbors wondering what magic is happening in your oven.
So, let’s dive into the world of homemade delights and discover how to create these indulgent Peanut Butter Bars that everyone will rave about—no culinary degree required!
Why Will You Love Peanut Butter Bars?
Simplicity: This recipe uses just a few common ingredients, making it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious treat.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate frosting makes these bars an instant hit at gatherings.
Fast to Prepare: With a quick bake time of 17-21 minutes, you’ll satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
Versatile: Enjoy these bars as a snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast on busy mornings. They can be customized with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
Homey Aroma: As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering scent that draws everyone in. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
Elevate your dessert game and check out my tips on quick desserts to keep the sweet treats coming effortlessly!
Peanut Butter Bars Ingredients
Unlock the secret to delicious Peanut Butter Bars with these simple ingredients!
For the Bars
- Butter – 3/4 cup (170g), room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100g) to add sweetness and moisture.
- Light Brown Sugar – 1 cup (220g), enhances flavor with a hint of caramel.
- Large Eggs – 2, essential for binding and richness in texture.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon, adds a warm, inviting aroma.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – 1/2 cup (135g), plus more for spreading for a delectable peanut flavor.
- Baking Soda – 2 1/2 teaspoons, helps the bars rise perfectly.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the sweetness beautifully.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 1/2 cups (188g), the base for your chewy bars.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – 2 cups (170g), providing texture and a wholesome touch.
For the Frosting
- Butter – 1/4 cup (57g), melted for a smooth frosting consistency.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – 1 tablespoon, gives the frosting its rich chocolate flavor.
- Milk – 1 1/2 tablespoons, helps to achieve a creamy texture.
- Powdered Sugar – 1 1/4 cups (150g), for sweetness and a decadent finish.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon, to round out the frosting’s flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s create some unforgettable Peanut Butter Bars that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
How to Make Peanut Butter Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures an even bake for your delicious Peanut Butter Bars, setting the stage for that perfect soft texture.
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Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until fluffy, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter, mixing well until smooth and delightful.
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Combine the baking soda, salt, all-purpose flour, and rolled oats in a separate bowl. This dry mixture will create a beautiful balance with the creamy ingredients.
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Incorporate the dry ingredients into the creamy mixture. Stir until just combined, then press firmly into a greased 9×13” pan, creating a lovely base for your bars.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 17-21 minutes until they are no longer glossy and just barely set in the center. Be watchful; they will firm up as they cool. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
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Spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter over the cooled bars. This will add an extra layer of peanut goodness and richness.
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Prepare the chocolate frosting by melting butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the cocoa powder and remove from heat. Combine milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
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Frost the cooled bars generously with the chocolate frosting, using a spatula to create an even, luscious layer.
Optional: Garnish with chopped peanuts for an extra crunch and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Peanut Butter Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these bars to suit your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of crushed nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the batter for a delightful crunch.
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Chocolate Chip Extravaganza: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free chocolate for the frosting to make these bars suitable for dairy-free diets.
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Banana Boost: Replace 1/4 cup of the butter with ripe banana puree for a moist, fruity twist that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the batter for a surprising spicy note that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
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Double Chocolate: Use cocoa powder in the bar batter too! Just mix in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder along with the dry ingredients for a chocolatey base.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap out the granulated sugar for pure maple syrup to infuse a warm, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
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Oatmeal Raisin: Mix in 1 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for an oatmeal raisin-like flavor, adding moisture and a chewy texture.
Let these variations inspire you to create Peanut Butter Bars that are uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Bars are perfect for meal prep, bringing both convenience and deliciousness to your busy week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, the baked bars can be made ahead and kept, unfrosted, in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To finish when ready to serve, simply spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter, whip up the chocolate frosting, and spread it generously over the top. This way, you’ll have a delectable treat ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if baked fresh!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Bars?
Creating the perfect meal to accompany these delightful treats can elevate your peanut butter experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture complements the warmth of the bars while the sweetness balances the rich peanut flavor.
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a refreshing, tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Dive deeper into indulgence with a milkshake. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the frosting for a deliciously creamy combo!
- Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over the bars for an added layer of flavor and texture, enhancing the peanut butter delight.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee offers a rich, slightly bitter balance that complements the sweetness found in the bars, making for a cozy snack time.
- Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside for a healthy twist! Its tanginess provides a delicious contrast to the sweet, dense bars while adding protein.
Gather these pairing ideas, and you’ll create an unforgettable treat experience everyone will savor!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Bars
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a fluffy texture when creaming with the sugars.
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Don’t Over-Bake: Keep a close eye on your bars in the oven. They should be just set in the center; over-baking may lead to dry Peanut Butter Bars.
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Cooling Time: Allow your bars to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
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Layer Wisely: When spreading the creamy peanut butter on the bars, use a thin layer to balance the frost’s richness without overwhelming the flavor.
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Whisking the Frosting: For a smooth frosting, whisk vigorously until all lumps disappear. Investing a little extra time here pays off with a velvety texture!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Peanut Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, store the bars in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they are covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight, or microwave for a few seconds to bring back their delightful softness before serving.
Peanut Butter Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use?
I recommend using creamy peanut butter for this recipe. This will create a smooth texture in your bars. If you prefer crunchy peanut butter, feel free to substitute it! Just keep in mind that it will add a bit more texture.
How should I store my Peanut Butter Bars?
For best results, store your Peanut Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peanut Butter Bars, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If you find that your Peanut Butter Bars are crumbly after baking, it could be a sign that they were overbaked. To remedy that, be sure to follow the baking time closely and check for doneness by rendering them just set in the center. If you’re trying to salvage previously baked bars, you can add a drizzle of warm peanut butter on top when serving to help bind them together!
Are Peanut Butter Bars safe for my pets?
Peanut butter is generally safe for dogs in moderation, but be cautious with the added ingredients in this recipe, like sugar and chocolate. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, so it’s best not to share these bars with them. Always check any ingredients before offering treats to your furry friends!
Irresistible Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Frosting Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter.
- Combine baking soda, salt, all-purpose flour, and rolled oats in a separate bowl.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients into the creamy mixture and press firmly into a greased 9x13'' pan.
- Bake for 17-21 minutes until just barely set in the center, then allow to cool completely before frosting.
- Spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter over the cooled bars.
- Prepare the chocolate frosting by melting butter and stirring in cocoa powder, remove from heat and combine milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Frost the cooled bars with the chocolate frosting using a spatula.