By This Peanut Butter Bars balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Peanut Butter Bars captures the essence of meals while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Peanut Butter Bars becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
4-5 cups powdered sugar (start with 4 cups and add more if too wet)
1 ½ cups chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
Line an 8×8” or 9×9″ dish with parchment paper.
2
In a large bowl, blend the peanut butter and softened butter on medium speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth
Alternatively, use the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Add the vanilla extract and salt to the peanut butter mixture and blend to combine.
4
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed between each addition
Start with 4 cups, adding more if the peanut butter mixture is too wet
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Mix just until the sugar is incorporated and the dough resembles large crumbles.
6
Pour the dough into the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer
For a smooth top, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper over the dough and press it down until flat.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture and spread it out evenly.
Optionally, top with festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Place the bars in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set.
Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 40 min
Servings: 25
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~300 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
