Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 18x18cm baking dish with parchment paper.

   Tip: Make sure the parchment paper is large enough to cover the entire dish.

2. 2

   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.

   Tip: Use a whisk or a fork to get rid of any lumps.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   Tip: Be careful not to overmix.

4. 4

   Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.

   Tip: Stir until smooth and glossy.

5. 5

   Add the melted chocolate to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

   Tip: Make sure there are no visible streaks of chocolate.

6. 6

   Add the peanut butter and mix until smooth and creamy.

   Tip: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

7. 7

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

   Tip: Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

8. 8

   Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

   Tip: Don't overmix, or the bars will be tough.

9. 9

   Fold in the peanut butter chips and chopped peanuts.

   Tip: Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

10. 10

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

    Tip: Use a spatula or your hands to get rid of any air pockets.

11. 11

    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 5cm from the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.

    Tip: Don't overbake, or the bars will be dry.

12. 12

    Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

    Tip: Use a sharp knife to get clean cuts.