Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 16 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.Quick Answer
These Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a deliciously chewy treat with layers of gooey caramel, perfect for warming hearts during the holiday season.As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp here in New York City, the excitement for the holidays begins to bubble over. Cheery lights are already starting to adorn the streets, and I find my kitchen beckoning me to create cozy and indulgent treats that warm the heart and satisfy the sweet tooth. One of my go-to recipes during this season of gatherings is a delightful combination of flavors: Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. You might wonder how something so rich can be so easy to make. Trust me, I've spent countless afternoons perfecting this recipe, and I'm thrilled to share it with you!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously indulgent flavor combination of peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Easy to make, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
- Great for sharing at holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Comforting and cozy treat that captures the spirit of the season.
- Leftovers can be stored and enjoyed for up to a week, ensuring everyone can savor the goodness.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (I love using semi-sweet)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, I often use pecans or walnuts)
How to Make Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to bake the most delicious Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). I recommend using a 9x13-inch baking dish, which is my favorite tool for this recipe. Grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix the Cookie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. The nutty aroma wafting through the kitchen already feels like a warm hug. Next, add in both sugars-brown and granulated-mixing until the batter turns light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add in the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they're well blended before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing it to infuse that child-like joy into your batter.
Step 4: Combine with Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Fold in the chocolate chips, reveling in the gooey goodness they bring.
Step 5: Layer the Bars
Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Drizzle the caramel sauce right over the dough, letting it glide smoothly like syrupy heaven! If you're feeling festive, sprinkle in some chopped nuts for an added crunch. Top with dollops of the remaining cookie dough, creating a rustic texture pattern that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, and the center has a slight jiggle-this ensures that wonderfully chewy texture! Trust your senses here; the sweet, warm scent is enough to tempt anyone.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. The gooey caramel will still be warm and inviting, creating an amazing combination with the dense cookie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the flour can lead to dense, tough bars; mix until just combined.
- Don't Skip the Cooling Time: Cutting them while they're still warm can result in a messy situation. Patience is key!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps ensure a smooth and well-blended batter; cold butter and eggs can lead to an uneven mix.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- To truly elevate the flavors, consider browning the butter before mixing it in, which adds a lovely nutty depth.
- If you're making these for a special gathering, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer just before baking for a savory pop that perfectly complements the sweetness.
- They also make a delightful gift for neighbors or friends; just package them with a festive bow!
Variations
- Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
- Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an added twist.
- Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for warming spice notes.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Cut into small squares and package as holiday gifts for friends and neighbors.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- Storage: Keep these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Reheating: If desired, warm individual bars in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Freezing: Cut the bars into squares and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
These Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars embody everything wonderful about the season: warmth, joy, and comfort in every bite. I've learned that each time I make them, they bring just a little more joy into my home and everyone else's that I share them with.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 bars · Serving Size: 1 bar
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 4g protein · 32g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Peanut Butter Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter. Add sugars and mix until fluffy.
- Mix in eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract until well blended.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl, then combine with wet ingredients and fold in chocolate chips.
- Spread half the dough into the prepared dish, drizzle caramel on top, add nuts if using, then top with remaining dough.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are golden and center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well to combine the oil with the peanut butter before measuring. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious!
2. How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should have a slight jiggle. Be cautious not to overbake, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
3. Can I substitute the caramel sauce with something else?
If you prefer, you can use a homemade caramel sauce or substitute it with chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile. Just remember that it will change the flavor and texture.
4. How should I store the cookie bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving.
5. Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Yes, these cookie bars freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
