Indulging in a treat that effortlessly combines the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with the decadent sweetness of chocolate is a dream come true for many dessert lovers. The Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese’s Bars Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that will transport you to chocolate heaven! Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy bar filled with chunks of Reese’s peanut butter cups, all wrapped in a delightful cookie base. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Firstly, it brings together two beloved flavors: peanut butter and chocolate. Secondly, the addition of Reese’s peanut butter cups adds an extra layer of texture and taste that you won’t be able to resist. Finally, it’s easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, these bars are perfect for any occasion.
What to Buy
Before you start baking, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This adds richness and flavor to the cookie base.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient that provides that classic peanut butter taste.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of our bars.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
- 1 tablespoon corn starch – Ensures a soft and chewy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds extra chocolatey goodness.
- 1 package Reese’s peanut butter cups (about 8), unwrapped and chopped – The delicious chunks that make these bars special.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key in baking!
- Spatula – For mixing and spreading the batter.
- 9×13 inch baking pan – The perfect size for baking.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
- Cooling rack – Allows your bars to cool properly.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese’s Bars Recipe Cooking Guide
Now, let’s get down to the fun part—making the Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese’s Bars!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with a bit of butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and the egg. Use a spatula or whisk to mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, corn starch, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate and Reese’s
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups. This is where the magic happens, and your bars start to come to life!
Step 7: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with your spatula.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You want the center to be slightly underbaked for that chewy texture.
Step 9: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles, and serve!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking to adapt the recipe for vegan or vegetarian diets, consider the following swaps:
- Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter.
- Egg: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Sugar: Ensure your sugars are vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
- Peanut Butter: Use a natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing: This can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined.
- Underbaking: If the bars are too gooey, return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sticking to the Pan: Make sure to grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper.
- Uneven Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even results.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prep these bars ahead of time! Here are some tips for storage:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Common Qs About Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese’s Bars Recipe
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the bars, enhancing the overall experience.
What if I don’t have corn starch?
You can omit the corn starch; however, it helps achieve a softer texture. The bars will still turn out delicious without it.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips according to your preference.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for golden edges and a slightly soft center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs—this indicates a chewy texture.
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Bring It Home
Indulging in the Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese’s Bars Recipe is a fantastic way to treat yourself or impress your loved ones. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that making these bars is just as enjoyable as eating them. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Reese's Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and perfectly.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with a bit of butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and the egg. Use a spatula or whisk to mix until smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, corn starch, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the chopped Reese's peanut butter cups. This is where the magic happens, and your bars start to come to life!
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with your spatula.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You want the center to be slightly underbaked for that chewy texture.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles, and serve!
Notes
- Use vegan butter and a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze bars tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
