Peanut Butter Passion Bars

If you’re a peanut butter lover, these Peanut Butter Passion Bars are calling your name. Rich, chewy, and utterly addictive, they combine creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate chips, and a soft cookie-like base into one irresistible treat. Perfect for bake sales, dessert tables, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are as easy to make as they are to devour.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peanut Butter Bliss – Perfectly rich and nutty with every bite.
Easy to Make – No mixer required and just one bowl!
Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for parties, picnics, and potlucks.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime.
Soft & Chewy – Like a peanut butter cookie in bar form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for crunch)
• Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife for slicing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

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

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and peanuts, if using.

Step 4: Spread & Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or flaky sea salt on top if desired.
Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool & Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Lift out using the parchment paper and slice into squares or rectangles.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Tips for Best Results
Don’t Overbake – They should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Use Creamy Peanut Butter – Natural peanut butter can separate and affect texture.
Chill Before Slicing – For cleaner edges and easier slicing.
Add a Swirl – Drop spoonfuls of extra peanut butter on top before baking and swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
Make It Nut-Free – Skip the peanuts and use sunflower seed butter if needed.

Serving Suggestions
With a Glass of Milk – Classic combo!
Drizzled with Chocolate – For extra indulgence.
With Ice Cream – Warm up a square and top with vanilla ice cream.
Pack in Lunchboxes – Perfect for an afternoon treat.
Serve with Coffee – A sweet pairing for an afternoon pick-me-up.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Keep in a sealed container for 4–5 days.
Refrigerate: Optional for a firmer texture.

Freezing:
Wrap bars individually and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
   Yes! It adds a nice texture if you like a bit of crunch in your bars.
2. What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
   You can use chopped chocolate, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely—use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes.
4. Are these gluten-free?
   Not as written, but you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
5. Can I use almond or cashew butter?
   Yes, but the flavor will change slightly—still delicious!

Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Passion Bars are the perfect treat for anyone who loves rich, chewy, peanut buttery desserts. They’re easy to whip up, full of comforting flavor, and totally irresistible whether served warm or cold. Perfect for dessert trays, parties, or a little self-care snack with coffee or tea.

Try them out and don’t forget to share your version—leave a review and tag your creations online!

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

Nutritional Information (Per Bar – based on 16):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Sodium: 95mg

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