Oh, the charm of a rural Midwestern kitchen! Our Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars bring me right back to those summer afternoons at Grandma’s house. Long before anyone thought of trendy dessert bars, we were whipping up gooey, peanut-buttery creations that became family favorites. These bars celebrate the sweet simplicity of Midwestern cooking, combined with the joys of modern indulgences like peanut butter cups. Perfect for a church potluck or a cozy family gathering, they promise comfort and a touch of nostalgia with each bite.
These delicious bars are a treat on their own but pair wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a touch of freshness, a simple fruit salad with strawberries and blueberries makes a delightful complement.
Peanut Butter Cup Gooey Cookie Bars
Servings: 16
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups mini peanut butter cups, chopped
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped mini peanut butter cups.
7. Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
8. Gently heat the creamy peanut butter in the microwave until it’s slightly runny, then drizzle it over the dough layer in the pan.
9. Drop the remaining dough by spoonfuls over the peanut butter layer, then gently spread it with a spatula.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Variations & Tips
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate candies in place of the mini peanut butter cups. Chopped Reese’s Pieces or even M&Ms can add a delightful twist. For an extra gooey experience, consider adding a layer of caramel sauce along with the peanut butter. To make these bars a bit more festive, sprinkle some sea salt on top right before baking for that sweet-salty flavor combination everyone loves.
