Peanut Butter Swirl Bars
When it comes to dessert, few things are as comforting and satisfying as a rich, chewy bar that combines the delightful flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. These Peanut Butter Swirl Bars are a delicious treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, these bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into how to whip up these irresistible bars that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why It Works Every Time
The beauty of these Peanut Butter Swirl Bars lies in their simplicity. The combination of creamy peanut butter and softened butter creates a moist, tender base that is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of brown and white sugar. The addition of eggs and vanilla enhances the flavor while providing structure, ensuring these bars are chewy yet soft. A touch of baking powder helps them rise just enough, while the chocolate chips add a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite. This recipe is designed to be foolproof, delivering consistent results that will leave you wondering why you didn’t make them sooner!
Shopping List
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Before You Start: Equipment
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing
- Baking pan (9×9 inches) – for baking the bars
- Parchment paper – for easy removal
- Oven – set to the right temperature for baking
Peanut Butter Swirl Bars, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This also helps prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1/3 cup of softened butter. Add in 3/4 cup of firmly packed brown sugar and 3/4 cup of white sugar. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in 2 large eggs and pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring the eggs are well blended into the batter.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
Step 7: Pour and Swirl
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. To create the signature swirl, drop spoonfuls of additional peanut butter on top of the batter and use a knife to swirl it through gently.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- Substitute natural peanut butter for a healthier option, reducing added sugars and preservatives.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Opt for dark chocolate chips, which typically contain less sugar and more antioxidants.
Testing Timeline
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling time: 20-30 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour
Save It for Later
These Peanut Butter Swirl Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Peanut Butter Swirl Bars FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your bars a delightful texture, adding little bursts of peanut goodness with every bite.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce can replace one egg.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the bars?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even some shredded coconut for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chocolate chips accordingly so that the bars don’t become too crowded.
Quick Weeknight Wins
Save & Share
If you enjoyed making these Peanut Butter Swirl Bars, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! Tag us on social media and let us know how your bars turned out. We love seeing your creations and hearing your feedback!
There’s something truly special about baking and sharing sweet treats with loved ones. These Peanut Butter Swirl Bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort that everyone can enjoy. With their rich peanut butter base and chocolatey goodness, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an afternoon snack. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious bite of heaven!
Peanut Butter Swirl Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and softened butter, then mix in brown sugar and white sugar until smooth.
- Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Step 6: Fold in chocolate chips.
- Step 7: Pour batter into the prepared pan and create swirls with additional peanut butter.
- Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Step 9: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter.
