Vanilla Peanut Butter Bars
Prep
20 mins
Cook
35 mins
Servings
12
Difficulty
Easy
Rich and indulgent bars filled with a creamy vanilla and peanut butter filling, topped with a layer of smooth chocolate.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 250all-purpose flour
- 200granulated sugar
- 150unsalted butter
- 120peanut butter
- 4large eggs
- 1½ mlvanilla extract
- 100unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6salt
- 200chocolate chips
- 20unsalted butter for greasing
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 18x20cm baking dish with parchment paper.
Tip: Optional: use a baking mat for easy cleanup.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth.
Tip: Use an electric mixer for best results.
- 3
Gradually add the sugar and mix until well combined.
Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- 4
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each addition.
- 5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
Tip: Use a whisk or electric mixer for best results.
- 6
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Tip: Be careful not to overmix.
- 7
Pour the filling into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Tip: Make sure the edges are evenly coated.
- 8
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 5cm from the edge comes out clean.
Tip: Keep an eye on the bars after 20 minutes as they can go from undercooked to overcooked quickly.
- 9
Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Tip: Let the bars cool completely before cutting into them.
- 10
Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
Tip: Use a spatula to scrape the chocolate from the bottom of the bowl.
- 11
Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled bars and smooth the top.
Tip: Make sure the chocolate is evenly distributed and the bars are fully coated.
- 12
Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Tip: Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Chinese Egg Salad
Here's a recipe I've been making all summer that my friends absolutely love. This Chinese egg salad comes together in under an hour and costs practically nothing to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand. The beauty of this dish is how refreshing and light it feels, especially on warm days. Eggs are packed with choline, which supports brain health, and when you combine them with all these crisp vegetables and that tangy sesame oil dressing, you get something that's both satisfying and incredibly good for you. It's perfect for meal prep, lunch boxes, or even a quick dinner when you don't feel like cooking anything complicated.
Chinese Black Bean Salad
This Chinese black bean salad is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely delicious. Black beans are packed with fiber and protein, making them incredibly filling and nutritious, so you get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The beauty of this recipe is how simple it really is, just fresh vegetables tossed with a punchy ginger garlic dressing that brings everything to life. I love serving it cold or at room temperature, which means you can prep it ahead and grab it whenever you need a quick, wholesome lunch or side dish.
Chinese Quinoa Salad
This Chinese Quinoa Salad has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely restaurant quality. The best part? Quinoa is packed with complete protein, so you're getting all nine essential amino acids in every bite, making this a genuinely satisfying meal that keeps you full. I love how simple it is to assemble once the quinoa cooks, and you can prep all the vegetables while it simmers away. The sesame oil and ginger dressing gives it such an authentic flavor that your friends will be amazed you made it at home, but honestly, it's easier than ordering takeout.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.