Introduction
Indulge in a delightful treat with these scrumptious chocolate-peanut butter bars. Combining the rich flavors of semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and the fun crunch of Reese’s Pieces, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for a party or a simple afternoon snack, these bars are easy to make and even more enjoyable to eat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 cup Reese’s Pieces candies
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 bars
Enjoy the process of making these delicious bars, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet mixture. Mix only until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Fold in Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and Reese’s Pieces candies. Ensure that these additions are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pan
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even surface.
Step 8: Bake the Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Bars
Remove the baking pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, placed on a wire rack to enhance air circulation.
Step 10: Cut and Serve
Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes. Serve and enjoy your delicious treats!
Notes
Storage Information
Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their freshness.
Variations
Feel free to swap the candy mix-ins with your favorite chocolate or nut flavors to customize your bars.
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugars
Creaming butter and sugar together is a key technique in many baking recipes. It involves beating softened butter with sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps to leaven the dough and gives baked goods a light texture.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Mixing dry ingredients such as flour, baking soda, and salt together before incorporating them into wet ingredients ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and prevents clumping. It’s an essential step for achieving a uniform texture in your baked goods.
Incorporating Eggs
When adding eggs to the creamed butter and sugars, it’s best to add them one at a time. This method allows for better emulsification and ensures each egg is well mixed into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.
Folding in Chips and Candies
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to incorporate chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or candies without overworking the dough. Use a spatula to lift and turn the mixture, so you maintain the shape and texture of the ingredients.
Baking Time and Temperature
Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for the right texture and doneness. For these bars, baking at 350°F (175°C) allows for even cooking. Keep an eye on the edges; they should turn golden brown while the center remains moist.
Cooling Properly
Allowing baked goods to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack helps prevent them from becoming soggy. This step is essential for achieving the right texture, making it easier to cut into bars without crumbling.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the overall flavor of the bars. If using salted butter, consider reducing the additional salt in the recipe.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar, although the bars will be less moist and lack the caramel flavor that brown sugar provides. Alternatively, you can use coconut sugar or a blend of granulated sugar with a bit of molasses.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes, you can add nuts such as chopped peanuts or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips and candies.
How should I store the baked bars?
The baked bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, or you can freeze them for up to three months.
Conclusion
These delicious bars are a perfect combination of flavors, blending rich chocolate, sweet peanut butter, and crunchy candies. With a chewy texture and an irresistible taste, they make for a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy them as a snack or dessert, and share them with family and friends for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Cookie Variations
Experiment with different types of chips such as white chocolate or butterscotch, and add in nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Brownie Swirl
For a decadent twist, layer a fudgy brownie mix on the bottom before adding the cookie dough mixture on top to create a brownie-cookie mashup.
Oatmeal Addition
Incorporate rolled oats into the mixture for a chewy texture and a bit of heartiness; just be sure to adjust the flour slightly.
Fruit Infusion
Mix in dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, to add sweetness and a fruity element that complements the candy and chocolate.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Turn these bars into ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two pieces of the bars for a fun and tasty dessert.
Festive Themes
Use seasonal candies like M&M’s or themed sprinkles for holidays to make your bars more festive and visually appealing.
