Indulge in the irresistible flavor of Peanut Butter Cake Bars β a dessert that combines soft, cake-like texture with the rich, nutty goodness of creamy peanut butter. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness from granulated and light brown sugars, these bars are taken to the next level with optional semi-sweet chocolate chips for a hint of indulgence. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a simple one-bowl mixing method, this recipe delivers homemade comfort in under an hour. Serve them as a standalone treat or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent touch. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these peanut butter bars are ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an afternoon snack. Easy, delicious, and packed with peanut butter flavor, theyβre sure to become a family favorite!
Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease or line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour mixture) into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares or bars.
Serve these rich and flavorful peanut butter cake bars on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Calories |
3591 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 180.7 g | 232% | |
| Saturated Fat | 67.9 g | 340% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 496 mg | 165% | |
| Sodium | 2583 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 444.9 g | 162% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 24.0 g | 86% | |
| Total Sugars | 265.6 g | ||
| Protein | 83.4 g | 167% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 347 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 17.9 mg | 99% | |
| Potassium | 1908 mg | 41% | |
*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.