Peanut Butter Passion Bars

Craving something sweet, nutty, and impossible to resist? These Peanut Butter Passion Bars are soft, chewy, and layered with rich peanut butter flavor, gooey chocolate chips, and a buttery cookie base that will make you fall in love with dessert all over again. Whether you’re baking for a party, an after-school treat, or just because—you’ll be reaching for seconds before they’ve cooled.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peanut Butter Lover’s Dream – Rich, creamy, and loaded with nutty flavor.
One-Bowl Wonder – Easy to mix and even easier to devour.
Crowd Favorite – Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or lunchboxes.
Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like pretzels, peanuts, or caramel.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a batch and enjoy whenever the craving hits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bar Base:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Mix-Ins & Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
• ½ cup peanut butter chips or chopped roasted peanuts
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk and spatula
• Cooling rack
• Knife for slicing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper or grease well with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and peanut butter until smooth.
Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla. Mix until creamy and combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Do not overmix—stop when no streaks of flour remain.

Step 4: Fold in the Good Stuff
Gently fold in chocolate chips and peanut butter chips (or chopped nuts).
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if using.

Step 6: Cool & Slice
Let bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
Lift out using parchment paper and slice into squares or rectangles.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Bars
Use Creamy Peanut Butter – For the smoothest, richest texture.
Don’t Overbake – They’ll continue to set as they cool.
Mix It Up – Add mini marshmallows, crushed pretzels, or toffee bits.
Make It Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Freeze for Later – Slice, then wrap and freeze for quick treats anytime.

Serving Suggestions
Serve your Peanut Butter Passion Bars with:

• A cold glass of milk
• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream
• Fresh berries for a sweet contrast
• A drizzle of warm chocolate or peanut butter sauce

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing:
Freeze bars (cut or whole) in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly to enjoy.

Reheating:
Microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture like they’re fresh from the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
   Yes, but it should be well stirred and not too oily or runny, or the bars may not set properly.
2. What’s the best type of chocolate for this recipe?
   Semi-sweet is a classic choice, but dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips work great.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 28–32 minutes.
4. Are these bars chewy or cakey?
   These are chewy with soft centers and lightly crisp edges—totally irresistible!

Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Passion Bars are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. With their buttery texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and chocolate-studded goodness, they’re everything a dessert bar should be—and more. Make them for your next gathering or keep a stash for sweet tooth emergencies!

Try them today and taste the passion in every bite!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Bar, based on 16 servings):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 90mg

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