Imagine a cookie bar that combines the rich, gooey goodness of chocolate chip cookies with the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter. That’s exactly what you’re getting with The Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Swirled Cookie Bars. These bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a sweet indulgence on a quiet evening at home. The intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will have everyone swooning, and trust me, the first bite will leave you craving more.
These cookie bars are chewy yet soft, with a swirled pattern of peanut butter that creates a beautiful and delicious contrast. They are incredibly easy to make and are sure to impress your friends and family. So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- The perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Great for sharing at parties or keeping as a treat at home.
- Soft, chewy texture that everyone loves.
What You’ll Need
- 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2-3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer – To easily cream the butter and sugars.
- Spatula – For folding in chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Baking pan (9×13 inches) – The perfect size for these cookie bars.
- Parchment paper – Makes for easy removal and cleanup.
The Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Swirled Cookie Bars. in Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the 2 sticks of salted butter, 2/3 cup light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 2-3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter for about 20-30 seconds until it is slightly runny. This makes it easier to swirl into the cookie bars.
Step 7: Combine and Swirl
Spread the cookie dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the warmed peanut butter over the cookie dough. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the dough, creating a marbled effect.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Cut
Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares and enjoy!
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- Add festive sprinkles on top for birthdays or celebrations.
- Use seasonal cookie cutters to cut the bars into fun shapes.
- During the holidays, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a seasonal touch.
What Not to Do
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour; this can lead to tough cookie bars.
- Avoid using natural peanut butter, as it doesn’t swirl as nicely due to its consistency.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; they need to set properly before cutting.
- Resist the temptation to bake them longer; they’ll continue to cook in the pan after removal.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
If you want to save some of these delicious bars for later, they freeze beautifully! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Common Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
While you can use natural peanut butter, it tends to be less creamy and may not swirl as well. Stick to a creamy style for the best results.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the blend for one-to-one baking compatibility.
What can I add to these cookie bars for an extra crunch?
Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even some crushed pretzels for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have the perfect recipe for The Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Swirled Cookie Bars., it’s time to get into the kitchen and start baking. These bars are sure to become a favorite in your home, and you’ll love sharing them with friends and family. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic begin!
The Best Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Swirled Cookie Bars.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly.
- Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the 2 sticks of salted butter, 2/3 cup light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla. Add the 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips. Gently fold in 2-3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl. In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter for about 20-30 seconds until it is slightly runny. This makes it easier to swirl into the cookie bars.
- Step 7: Combine and Swirl. Spread the cookie dough evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the warmed peanut butter over the cookie dough. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the dough, creating a marbled effect.
- Step 8: Bake. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Cool and Cut. Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Feel free to add nuts or other mix-ins for extra flavor and texture.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
