Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

These chocolate peanut butter bars are simply irresistible! With their rich, buttery crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and decadent chocolate topping, they’re the perfect indulgence for any sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving a midday treat or planning a dessert for a special occasion, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Plus, they’re easy to make and always a hit with both kids and adults alike. Just be prepared to make a double batch – they tend to disappear fast!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 3/4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1 cup (6 oz. pkg.) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 (14 oz.) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in chopped peanuts.
3. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture. Stir the beaten egg into the remaining crumb mixture. Press onto the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. Bake for 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, stir together sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in a small bowl until well combined. Pour evenly over the partially baked crust.
6. In another bowl, stir together the reserved crumb mixture and chocolate chips. Sprinkle evenly over the peanut butter layer.
7. Bake for an additional 15 minutes. Cool completely, then cut into bars.

FAQs:

1. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats?
   • Yes, you can substitute old-fashioned oats for quick-cooking oats, but the texture of the bars may be slightly different.
2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture in your bars.
3. Can I omit the peanuts if I have a nut allergy?
   • Yes, you can omit the chopped peanuts if you have a nut allergy. The bars will still be delicious without them.
4. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
   • Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor in your bars.
5. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
6. Can I freeze these bars?
   • Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
7. Can I add other mix-ins, like coconut or raisins?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite mix-ins, such as coconut, raisins, or chopped dried fruit.
8. Can I use a different type of nut butter?
   • Yes, you can experiment with different types of nut butter, such as almond butter or cashew butter, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Tips:

1. Make sure to press the crust firmly into the bottom of the pan to ensure it holds together when cutting into bars.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them to prevent them from crumbling.
3. For cleaner slices, refrigerate the bars for about an hour before cutting.
4. Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra special touch, if desired.

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