Orange Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350¿a). Line an 18x20 cm baking dish with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, cream the peanut butter and butter until smooth.

   Tip: Make sure to get rid of any lumps!

3. 3

   Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until well combined.

   Tip: This is the hardest part – be patient!

4. 4

   Add the orange juice, orange zest, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.

   Tip: Don't overmix – you want to keep the bars chunky!

5. 5

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

   Tip: Stir until smooth and glossy

6. 6

   Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.

7. 7

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

   Tip: Make sure to get rid of any air pockets!

8. 8

   Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

   Tip: Don't overbake – the centers should still be slightly chewy

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.

   Tip: Let it cool completely before cutting into bars

10. 10

    Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to set.

    Tip: Cut into bars and store in an airtight container