Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients—standard pantry staples come together in one bowl.

• Quick prep and baking—ready in just about 35 minutes.

• Crowd-pleasing—a classic chocolate + peanut butter combo that everyone loves.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¾ cup salted butter

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 2 large eggs

• 1½ cups packed light brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 °F. Line a 9×13″ pan with foil and spray lightly with nonstick spray. Set aside.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in peanut butter, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.

3. Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.

5. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until set and lightly golden at the edges. Be careful not to overbake as they should remain soft in the center.

6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out the bars using the foil and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 24 bars

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20–25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swirl twist: Add dollops of extra peanut butter on top and swirl it into the dough before baking.

• Mix-ins: Add ½ cup of M&Ms, peanut butter chips, or chopped pretzels for additional flavor and texture.

• Pan size: For a thicker bar, halve the recipe and bake in an 8×8-inch pan.

• Gluten-free: Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Storage / reheating

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds or place them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter has a different texture and can be too oily for this recipe, so it’s best to use creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best results.

2. How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are done when they’re lightly golden at the edges and firm in the center but still soft. Avoid overbaking them to keep them chewy.

3. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter; just reduce or omit the extra salt in the recipe.

4. Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! You can add M&Ms, chopped nuts, butterscotch chips, or even a handful of pretzels for an extra crunch.

5. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

6. Can I freeze the bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature.

7. Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch pan. The bars will be thicker and may need slightly longer to bake.

8. What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can use regular granulated sugar instead, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

9. Why swirl peanut butter into the dough?

Swirling peanut butter into the dough adds a rich, creamy texture and a marble effect, making these bars even more indulgent.

10. Can I use dark or milk chocolate chips instead?

Yes, feel free to use dark or milk chocolate chips, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are a perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet, chewy, and packed with flavor. They are quick and easy to make, and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as an after-school snack, they’re sure to satisfy your peanut butter and chocolate cravings.