If there’s one flavor combo that never goes out of style, it’s peanut butter and chocolate. Rich, nostalgic, and downright irresistible, these Peanut Butter Bars are the kind of treat that disappears faster than you can say “just one more bite.”
Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, it’s officially time to slide into holiday baking mode—and this recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s easy, unfussy, and guaranteed to satisfy those sweet cravings that seem to show up right about now. Truth be told, I made these because I was craving something peanut buttery and chocolatey… and they absolutely delivered.
This recipe is inspired by one I found in the cookbook A Taste of Oregon, which I adore for its simple, classic desserts. I made a few small tweaks—swapping in milk chocolate chips, adding a peanut butter drizzle, and finishing with chopped nuts for extra crunch and visual appeal. Oh, and I may have added a little extra chocolate… because more chocolate is always the right answer.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie exchange, or just because peanut butter and chocolate called your name, these bars are a must-make.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Bars
- Easy, beginner-friendly recipe
- Classic peanut butter and chocolate flavor
- Perfect for holiday trays and bake sales
- No frosting required
- Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved
Peanut Butter Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Bars
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup rolled oats
Topping
- 10 ounces milk chocolate chips
Peanut Butter Drizzle
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or mixed nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, baking soda, salt, and oats. Mix until fully combined.
- Spread dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden and set.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot bars.
- Let stand for 5 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate evenly.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, peanut butter, and milk until thin enough to drizzle.
- Drizzle over chocolate layer and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Bars
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture.
- Spread the dough evenly to ensure even baking.
- Let the bars cool fully before slicing for clean edges.
- Warm your knife slightly for smoother cuts.
Notes & Variations
- Swap milk chocolate for semi-sweet or dark chocolate if preferred.
- Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra chocolate flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These bars freeze well for up to 2 months.
Wine Pairing
These peanut butter bars pair beautifully with a sweet red wine like Brachetto or Lambrusco. For something richer, try a ruby port or even a glass of cream sherry to complement the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! They’re perfect for making a day or two in advance.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
You can, but it will slightly change the texture of the bars.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps them keep longer and makes slicing easier.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use two pans or a larger sheet pan and adjust baking time slightly.
If you make these Peanut Butter Bars, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share a photo and tag me on social media. And if peanut butter and chocolate is your love language too, don’t forget to save this recipe for your holiday baking list. 🥜🍫✨
Peanut Butter Bars
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Bars
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup rolled oats
Topping
- 10 ounces milk chocolate chips Ghirardelli recommended
Drizzle
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 3 –4 tablespoons milk
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or mixed nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, baking soda, salt, and rolled oats. Mix until fully combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until set and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot bars.
- Let stand for 5 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, peanut butter, and milk, adding milk as needed for a thin drizzle consistency.
- Drizzle over the chocolate layer and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars for serving.
Notes
- For easier slicing, allow bars to cool completely before cutting.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.
- These bars freeze well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
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