Indulge in the irresistible simplicity and rich flavor of homemade peanut butter cookie bars. This recipe delivers a delightful treat that’s perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. These bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet boasting a texture and taste that rivals any bakery-made confection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success, resulting in chewy, nutty, and utterly addictive peanut butter squares. Prepare for a delightful afternoon of baking and even more delightful moments of enjoying these delectable bars.
Recipe: A Brief Description
This recipe provides a foolproof method for creating classic peanut butter cookie bars. The simple combination of peanut butter, butter, sugar, and flour results in a rich, chewy texture and a deep peanut butter flavor. The minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend baking project. The end result is a batch of twelve satisfyingly sweet and perfectly portioned bars, ideal for sharing (or not!).
Ingredients: A Detailed List
To create these incredibly easy and delicious peanut butter cookie bars, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup creamy peanut butter: Use your favorite brand of creamy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter, while delicious, may require a bit more mixing due to the oil separation. If using natural peanut butter, make sure to give it a good stir before measuring.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is crucial for proper creaming with the sugar. Take the butter out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you begin to allow it to reach room temperature. This ensures a smooth and even texture in the dough.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Granulated sugar provides the sweetness and helps to create the perfect texture in the bars. Do not substitute with powdered sugar, as it will alter the outcome of the recipe.
2 cups all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour is the binding agent in this recipe. Ensure you measure the flour correctly using a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method (scoop flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge). Do not scoop directly from the bag.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Baking soda helps the bars rise slightly and contributes to their soft and chewy texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
Directions/Instructions: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. You can use cooking spray, butter, or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lightly greasing the pan will make removing the bars much easier once they are cooled.
3. Cream Together Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. An electric mixer will make this process significantly faster and easier. Creaming the ingredients thoroughly is key to achieving the desired texture.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can result in tough cookie bars.
5. Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure an even layer.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
7. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows the bars to set properly and prevents them from crumbling.
8. Cut and Serve: Once the bars are completely cool, cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy! These peanut butter cookie bars are delicious on their own, with a glass of milk, or with your favorite beverage.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, you may want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the bars too salty.
Q: Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with another type of flour?
A: While all-purpose flour works best in this recipe, you could experiment with a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture and nuttier flavor. However, the results may vary.
Q: How long can I store these bars?
A: Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
These peanut butter cookie bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor make them perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these delightful treats. Enjoy the process, share the delicious results, and savor the satisfyingly chewy and nutty goodness of these homemade peanut butter cookie bars. You won’t be disappointed!