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Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

These chewy bars are a nostalgic treat that combine creamy peanut butter with melty chocolate chips, baked into a sticky, golden-brown square. They boast a soft, slightly sticky texture with pockets of gooey chocolate, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth with honest, simple ingredients. The process involves melting, mixing, pressing, and baking to achieve their signature chewy finish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter natural, runny preferred
  • 1/4 cup butter unsalted
  • 1 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar for caramel notes
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Microwave or double boiler
  • Whisk or spoon
  • 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Line your pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and butter together until smooth and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  3. Add the brown sugar and vanilla to the melted mixture, stirring well until fully combined and glossy.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt for even distribution.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to keep the texture chewy.
  6. Stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  7. Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan, pressing down gently with the back of a spatula or your fingers to create a smooth, level surface.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center feels firm when pressed.
  9. Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, allowing them to set and develop their chewy texture.
  10. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares with a sharp knife.
  11. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, enjoying the sticky, chocolatey, and nutty flavors.

Notes

For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the bars and let them cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.