Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars -

Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a soft, chewy cookie bar. This treat is perfect for those who adore the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, with the added delight of a gooey texture. Ideal for gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a delicious treat to enjoy any time, these bars are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup chocolate chips
30 miniature peanut butter cups
1 14-ounce can fat-free sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Directions:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps in preventing the bars from sticking and makes them easier to remove after baking.

Step 2:
In a large bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Stir until well combined.

Step 3:
Add the 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Mix until the eggs are fully incorporated.

Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.

Step 5:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 6:
Fold in ¾ cup of chocolate chips into the batter. This will add pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout the cookie bars.

Step 7:
Press half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer.

Step 8:
Place the 30 miniature peanut butter cups over the layer of cookie dough, distributing them evenly.

Step 9:
In a small bowl, whisk together the 14-ounce can of fat-free sweetened condensed milk and ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter. Pour this mixture over the peanut butter cups layer.

Step 10:
Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk layer.

Step 11:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are set.

Step 12:
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

Cooking Note:

The bars will continue to set as they cool, so it's important to allow them to cool completely before cutting.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars as a dessert with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They’re perfect for sharing at parties, picnics, or as a special treat.

Tips:

Variations: You can use dark chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different twist.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing: These bars can be frozen. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time:

Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 300-350 per bar
Protein: 5-7g per bar
Sodium: Varies based on the ingredients used

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars are an irresistible treat that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a soft, gooey, and chewy form. They are simple to make and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are a delightful indulgence!