Aunt Peggy'S Bar Cookies
Aunt Peggy's Bar Cookies are rich, chocolatey treats with a crunchy peanut butter base, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the yellow cake mix, crunchy peanut butter, and brown sugar until crumbly.
- Reserve 3/4 cup of the crumbs. Add water, butter (margarine), and eggs to the remaining crumbs and mix.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture in a greased and floured large 1/2-inch deep cookie pan.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumbs over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using natural peanut butter instead of crunchy peanut butter, or substitute almond butter for a different twist. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the taste. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the brown sugar slightly. Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These bar cookies make a delightful dessert on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. They are ideal for parties and gatherings, complementing other desserts like Party Puffs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm treat that softens the chocolate chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Peggy'S Bar Cookies contains roughly 136 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with chocolate or vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the final taste and texture of the bars.
What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
You can use butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or even chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure that the total amount remains the same to maintain the recipe's balance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make these bars gluten-free. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder in the mix, are gluten-free as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).