Indulge in the decadent layers of sweetness with these irresistible 5 Star Bars! Perfectly combining a buttery cookie base, a rich and creamy peanut butter filling, and a lusciously smooth chocolate ganache topping, this no-fuss dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With a prep time of just 25 minutes, these bars are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. The balance of textures—from the tender, baked foundation to the velvety peanut butter and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate—makes these treats a surefire hit for any occasion. Slice them into perfect squares for an elegant presentation that will have your guests swooning. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself, these 5 Star Bars deliver a five-star experience in every bite.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
While the base cools, prepare the peanut butter layer. In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled base layer.
To make the chocolate topping, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer is set.
Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Calories |
8634 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 416.9 g | 534% | |
| Saturated Fat | 173.6 g | 868% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 740 mg | 247% | |
| Sodium | 3448 mg | 150% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1173.0 g | 427% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 53.0 g | 189% | |
| Total Sugars | 845.5 g | ||
| Protein | 156.1 g | 312% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 513 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 32.1 mg | 178% | |
| Potassium | 2995 mg | 64% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.