Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

There’s something undeniably comforting about a batch of fresh-baked cookie bars, especially when they combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. These Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, packing school lunches, or simply indulging in a sweet snack at home. With a simple ingredients list and an even simpler preparation method, you’ll find yourself making these bars time and time again. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. They are:

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time.
• Deliciously Gooey: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter creates an irresistibly gooey texture.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite mix-ins to make these bars your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these bars fit right in.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make these delectable bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 rolls refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (16.5 ounces each): The base of our bars; this pre-made dough saves time without sacrificing taste.
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk: Adds creaminess and sweetness, ensuring the bars are gooey and delicious.
• 1/2 cup peanut butter: Brings a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to bind the ingredients together for that perfect bar texture.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start baking, gather the following equipment:

• 9×13 inch baking pan: The ideal size for these cookie bars.
• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• Spoon or spatula: To spread the cookie dough evenly in the pan.
• Oven: Preheat to ensure proper baking.

From Start to Finish: Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step is crucial for preventing sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter. Stir until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 4: Add the Cookie Dough

Open the refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough and break it into chunks. Add it to the peanut butter mixture and gently fold it in until well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain those delicious chocolate chips.

Step 5: Incorporate the Flour

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and fold it in until just combined. This will help to stabilize the bars and create a chewy texture.

Step 6: Spread the Mixture into the Pan

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, consider these fun variations:

• Nutty Additions: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips on top before baking for an extra chocolaty experience.
• Fruity Fusion: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a fruity twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt or a dash of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overmix the dough; this can lead to dense bars.
• Make sure your oven is properly preheated to avoid uneven baking.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
• Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary, and you want to catch them at the perfect gooey stage.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars. Cut them into squares, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Reader Q&A

Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade chocolate chip cookie dough recipe in place of the refrigerated dough. Just make sure the dough is similar in consistency.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut butter of your choice.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your cookie dough is also gluten-free.

Can I add more chocolate chips?

Of course! Feel free to add more chocolate chips to the mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking for an extra chocolatey treat.

If you enjoyed these Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, check out these other delightful recipes:

Make It Tonight

There’s no time like the present to whip up a batch of these Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll bring smiles to your kitchen in no time. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

There’s truly something magical about the combination of gooey peanut butter and chocolate, especially when it’s all packed into a deliciously chewy cookie bar. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these bars disappear from your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite!