These peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie bars are soft, chewy, and loaded with rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Baked in a jelly roll pan and cut into squares, they are an easy and delicious treat perfect for parties, bake sales, or afternoon snacks. The combination of brown sugar, butter, and vanilla creates a soft texture, while the chocolate and peanut butter chips add a decadent touch.
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Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars FAQ
Can I use all chocolate chips instead of peanut butter chips?
Yes, you can replace the peanut butter chips with extra chocolate chips if desired.
What kind of peanut butter chips work best?
Reese’s peanut butter chips are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
How should I store these cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Food History
Chocolate chip cookies were invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield, but cookie bars became popular in the mid-20th century as a quicker way to bake cookies. Peanut butter was introduced into baking in the early 1900s, and the combination of peanut butter and chocolate became a favorite in American desserts.
These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in an easy-to-make treat. By baking them in a sheet pan and cutting them into squares, they save time compared to individual cookies while delivering the same delicious taste.
Timeline
- 1930s – Chocolate chip cookies are invented.
- 1940s-1950s – Bar cookies gain popularity as an easy-to-bake dessert.
- 1960s-1970s – Peanut butter chips become available, leading to more peanut butter desserts.
- Present Day – Peanut butter and chocolate chip bars remain a popular homemade treat.
Recipe Discussion
These cookie bars have a perfect balance of flavors. The butter and brown sugar create a rich, soft texture, while the vanilla enhances the sweetness. The peanut butter chips add a creamy, nutty taste, and the chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of flavor.
Baking in a jelly roll pan ensures even cooking and a uniform thickness. The bars are golden brown on top while staying soft and chewy in the center. They are easy to cut into squares and serve, making them ideal for sharing.
Preparation Tips
- Use softened butter – Helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Cream the sugar and butter well – Creates a light and fluffy texture.
- Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level the flour to avoid dense bars.
- Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the bars tough.
- Use a parchment-lined pan – Makes removal and cleanup easier.
- Let cool before cutting – Helps the bars hold their shape.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Jelly Roll Pan – The perfect size for baking these bars evenly.
- Cooling Rack – Helps cool the bars quickly and evenly.
- Mixing Bowls – Great for creaming butter and sugar efficiently.
- Hand Mixer – Speeds up mixing for a smooth batter.
- Offset Spatula – Helps spread the batter evenly in the pan.
Serving Suggestions
- With a glass of milk – A classic pairing for a comforting treat.
- Drizzled with melted chocolate – Adds an extra layer of richness.
- Topped with vanilla ice cream – Creates a decadent dessert.
- With chopped nuts – Sprinkle with chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- As a holiday gift – Wrap in cellophane for a homemade gift idea.
A Classic Peanut Butter and Chocolate Treat
These peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie bars are a simple yet indulgent dessert. The combination of creamy peanut butter chips and rich chocolate chips creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a snack or dessert, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
These peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie bars are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter chips and chocolate chips. Baked in a jelly roll pan and cut into squares, they are an easy and delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter or margarine, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- 2 ¼ cups unsifted all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups Reese’s peanut butter chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in chocolate chips and peanut butter chips.
- Spread evenly into a greased 15x10½x1-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
- Cut into squares and serve.