Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars Recipe: A Classic Dessert with a Chocolate Twist
Craving a sweet and nostalgic dessert? These Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth! With a chewy peanut butter crust and a rich chocolate topping, these bars combine the best of peanut butter and chocolate for a deliciously indulgent dessert. Whether you’re looking for an easy snack or a sweet treat for a party, these peanut butter chocolate bars will be the hit of the table.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars:
For the Peanut Butter Crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup creamy peanut butter
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup creamy peanut butter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Peanut Butter Crust (Time: 5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients (Time: 3 minutes): Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined.
3️⃣ Combine the Dry Ingredients (Time: 2 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the creamy peanut butter until well incorporated.
4️⃣ Spread and Bake (Time: 20-25 minutes): Spread the peanut butter dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5️⃣ Make the Chocolate Topping (Time: 3-4 minutes): While the crust is baking, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
6️⃣ Top the Bars (Time: 2 minutes): Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the chocolate topping over the peanut butter crust and spread it evenly.
7️⃣ Cool and Slice (Time: 1-2 hours to cool completely): Allow the peanut butter chocolate bars to cool completely (or refrigerate for quicker cooling) before slicing them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love These Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars:
Perfect Peanut Butter and Chocolate Combination: With a chewy peanut butter crust and a creamy chocolate topping, these bars are the ultimate indulgence for any peanut butter lover.
Nostalgic Dessert: These peanut butter bars are a throwback to classic homemade treats, perfect for family gatherings or a sweet snack.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these homemade peanut butter bars in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack, a birthday party, or a potluck, these chocolate peanut butter bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips and Variations for the Best Peanut Butter Bars:
For a Chewier Crust: Use a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar. Brown sugar will add moisture, making the bars even chewier.
For a Thicker Crust: Use a smaller baking pan like an 8×12 inch pan for thicker, richer bars.
Extra Peanut Butter Flavor: Add more creamy peanut butter to the crust for a stronger peanut butter flavor. You can also swirl extra peanut butter into the chocolate topping for added flavor.
Add Chocolate Chips to the Crust: For an extra layer of chocolate, fold some chocolate chips into the peanut butter dough before baking.
Try Different Chocolate: Experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a different twist on the topping.
Add Sprinkles: For a fun touch, add sprinkles to the chocolate topping before it sets. Perfect for a festive occasion!
Nutritional Benefits of Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars:
Peanut Butter: Rich in protein and healthy fats, peanut butter adds flavor and a boost of energy to these dessert bars.
Butter: Adds a creamy texture to the crust, making it rich and indulgent.
Chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate is full of antioxidants, making this treat a little bit healthier while still tasting decadent.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars:
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these peanut butter bars a day or two in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving!
Q: Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Q: Can I add more chocolate chips to the topping?
Of course! Feel free to add extra chocolate chips or even drizzle more melted chocolate over the top for an extra chocolatey treat.
Final Thoughts:
These Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Bars are a classic, nostalgic treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a simple, easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a sweet snack, or just because, these peanut butter chocolate bars will never disappoint. Enjoy these homemade dessert bars that are sure to bring back fond memories with every bite!
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Cool Time: 1-2 hours (for full cooling)