Payday Cookie Bars
why make this recipe
Payday Cookie Bars are a delicious treat that combines the flavor of peanut butter and caramel with the sweetness of chocolate. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you want a quick snack, need a dessert for a potluck, or want to satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to make and fun to eat, these bars are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
how to make Payday Cookie Bars
Ingredients :
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter until smooth.
- Add brown sugar and granulated sugar; mix until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder; gradually add to the peanut butter mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
how to serve Payday Cookie Bars
You can serve Payday Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature. For extra indulgence, consider drizzling some melted chocolate or caramel on top. They are great on their own or pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
how to store Payday Cookie Bars
To keep your Payday Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Payday Cookie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- You can use creamy or chunky peanut butter depending on your preference.
- If you want to add some crunch, mix in chopped nuts.
- Don’t overbake the bars; they will continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
variation
For a fun twist, try adding some crushed pretzels for a salty crunch or replacing some of the chocolate chips with butterscotch chips for a different flavor.
FAQs
-
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but you might need to adjust the sugar since it can be less sweet than regular. -
Can I substitute the caramel bits?
Absolutely! You can use caramel sauce instead, but note that you may need to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. -
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Payday Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter Use creamy or chunky based on preference.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened Make sure butter is softened for easier mixing.
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adjust if using natural peanut butter.
- 2 pieces eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips Can replace some with butterscotch chips for a twist.
- 1 cup caramel bits Can substitute with caramel sauce and reduce sugar.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter until smooth.
- Add brown sugar and granulated sugar; mix until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder; gradually add to the peanut butter mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
