Deliciously Decadent Peanut Butter Cookie Bars to Love

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars offer rich flavors and delightful textures, making them a must-try dessert for any occasion.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Chocolate Chip Bars, Decadent Dessert, easy recipe, Peanut Butter Cookie Bars, quick dessert, Valentine Treats

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 24

Cooling Time: 1 30

Total Time: 2 14

Servings: bars

Calories: 200kcal

Equipment

9 x 13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk
spatula

Ingredients

For the Base

½ cup unsalted butter melted adds richness.
¾ cup creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth texture; avoid natural for best results.
1 cup light brown sugar packed offers depth and moisture.
¼ cup granulated sugar adds sweetness and lightness.
2 large eggs at room temperature help bind and create a tender crumb.
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.

For the Dry Mix

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled, essential for structure.
½ teaspoon baking powder gives a light lift to the bars.
¼ teaspoon baking soda helps them rise perfectly.
½ teaspoon fine sea salt balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Chocolatey Goodness

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips provides rich chocolatey chunks.
½ cup white chocolate chips adds sweetness and creaminess.

For the Festive Touch

¾ to 1 cup Valentine-colored M&M’s a playful and colorful addition.
2 tablespoons Valentine sprinkles optional to make these treats extra special.
Flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top enhances every sweet bite (optional).

For the Drizzle

½ cup white chocolate chips for optional drizzling adds a creamy finish.
1 teaspoon neutral oil keeps the drizzle smooth and glossy.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by lightly greasing a 9 x 13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. Then, line the bottom and long sides of the pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang; this will make lifting out the Peanut Butter Cookie Bars much easier later.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add both sugars and whisk until glossy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gently add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and fold until just combined.
Add both semi-sweet and white chocolate chips to the batter, folding until evenly distributed.
Scoop the dough into the prepared baking pan and press it firmly into the corners.
Gently press half to two-thirds of the Valentine-colored M&M’s into the surface of the dough and sprinkle with Valentine sprinkles.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 24 minutes.
Immediately after removing the pan from the oven, press any reserved M&M’s into the bare spots.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 1 to 1½ hours.
For an elegant finish, melt additional white chocolate chips with neutral oil, then drizzle over the cooled bars.
Once the bars are completely cool, slice them into squares or rectangles.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

These bars can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply indulging during a cozy night in.

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