Bar Cookies
These rich, chewy bar cookies combine the sweetness of yellow cake mix and semi-sweet chocolate chips with the creamy flavor of peanut butter. Baked to perfection, they offer a delightful treat for peanut butter lovers and chocolate fans alike, ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, peanut butter, melted margarine, and eggs together in a bowl.
- Pat half of the mixture into an ungreased loaf pan.
- Keep the other half in the bowl until the last step.
- Combine the Eagle Brand can and semi-sweet chocolate chips, then pour over the half in the loaf pan.
- Crumble the remaining half of the mixture over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy. You can also substitute half of the margarine with coconut oil for a different twist. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, try dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Be sure to mix the batter thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These bar cookies make a delightful treat on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. They are great for potlucks or parties, similar to Butterscotch Cornflake Cookies, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bar Cookies contains roughly 293 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value).
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 cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can experiment with different cake mix flavors like chocolate or lemon to create unique variations of these bar cookies. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly, and you might want to adjust the amount of peanut butter based on the sweetness of the cake mix.
What can I substitute for Eagle Brand?
If you need a substitute for Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk, you can use a homemade version by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar and cooking it down until thickened, or try coconut milk with sugar for a dairy-free option.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The bar cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
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).