Description
These cookie bars are inspired by the classic school cafeteria treats, with a moist and fluffy peanut butter base topped with a creamy peanut butter glaze. Perfect for sharing!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar (packed)
- 1 1/2 cups (375 g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (250 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (125 g) creamy peanut butter
- 3–4 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Bars:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
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Add Peanut Butter, Eggs, and Vanilla:
- Beat in the peanut butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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Bake the Bars:
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Glaze:
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Make the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, peanut butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
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Spread the Glaze:
- Once the bars are cool, spread the glaze evenly over the top. Let it set for about 10-15 minutes.
Serve:
- Cut and Enjoy:
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
- For extra texture, stir 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped peanuts into the dough.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For a sweeter glaze, sift the powdered sugar before mixing for a smoother texture.