Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds—rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter—then look no further than these gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars. With a simple list of ingredients and minimal prep time, these bars are perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth or impressing your friends at your next gathering. The combination of refrigerated cookie dough and sweetened condensed milk makes for an incredibly moist and decadent dessert that you won’t be able to resist. Grab your baking pan and let’s get started on these delicious bars!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of these gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars lies in their simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. Using refrigerated cookie dough as a base significantly cuts down on prep time, allowing you to whip up this treat in no time. The addition of sweetened condensed milk provides a gooey texture that keeps the bars moist and chewy, while the peanut butter adds a delightful nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile. This recipe is not only easy to make but also guarantees a rich, indulgent dessert that your family and friends will love.

What Goes Into Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

• 2 rolls refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (16.5 ounces each) – This is the base of our bars, providing a sweet, chocolatey flavor.
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk – Adds creaminess and a gooey texture to the bars.
• 1/2 cup peanut butter – Brings a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps to bind the ingredients together and gives structure to the bars.

Recommended Tools

• Baking pan (9×13 inch) – An essential for baking your cookie bars evenly.
• Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for folding in the ingredients without overmixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure the best results.

The Method for Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the two rolls of refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough, sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and all-purpose flour. Use your rubber spatula to mix until everything is well combined. The dough will be thick and somewhat sticky.

Step 4: Spread the Mixture

Pour the dough mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using the spatula, spread it evenly to cover the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Swap Guide

• Nut Butter: Feel free to substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter if you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor.
• Cookie Dough: You can use other flavors of refrigerated cookie dough, such as sugar cookie or oatmeal raisin, for a fun twist.
• Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. You want the edges to be lightly golden while ensuring the center remains gooey.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting; this helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftover gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to reheat them, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm them up. Enjoy the gooey goodness all over again!

Helpful Q&A

Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Yes, you can freeze gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars! Simply cut them into squares, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can make your own by simmering 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of sugar until it thickens and reduces to about 1 cup. Just let it cool before using it in the recipe.

Can I add more chocolate chips?

Absolutely! If you love chocolate, feel free to fold in an extra half cup of chocolate chips or even some chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Yes, these gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars are a hit with kids! Just be mindful of any nut allergies and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookie bars, it’s time to share your creation with others! Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them as a late-night snack, these bars are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to take a picture and share your baking adventure on social media. Happy baking!