Name: Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485883H17M15S
Total time: PT-485883H17M15S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: 1/2 cup peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts

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Peanut Butter Cookie Bars a soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor, these cookie bars bring together the best qualities of classic peanut butter cookies but in an easy-to-cut bar form. They make a perfect snack or dessert that’s quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: ½ cup peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts for extra texture

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts.

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking takes 20-25 minutes, so the total time is roughly 35 minutes. Each bar has approximately 290 calories.

Variations

I sometimes add peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts for a little extra texture and crunch. You can also swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you prefer more texture throughout. For a twist, adding a handful of chocolate chips blends beautifully with the peanut butter flavor. If I want a nut-free option, I use sunflower seed butter instead.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the cookie bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. When I want to enjoy a frozen bar, I let it thaw at room temperature or warm it briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that soft, chewy texture.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter can work, but because it has more oil, the texture might be slightly different—potentially a bit softer or more crumbly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for golden edges and test with a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just use a 9x13-inch pan instead of an 8x8-inch one and adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness regularly.

Conclusion

I find these peanut butter cookie bars to be a deliciously easy treat that satisfies any peanut butter craving. Their soft, chewy texture combined with rich flavor makes them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether I’m baking for family, friends, or just myself, these bars come together quickly and always get eaten fast. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite peanut butter dessert.

Recipe:

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft, chewy peanut butter cookie bars that combine the classic flavors of peanut butter cookies into an easy-to-cut bar form. Perfect as a snack or dessert with a rich, balanced peanut butter taste.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.