Buddy Bars
Delicious peanut butter chocolate bars with a rich, creamy texture and gooey chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; beat until creamy.
- Blend in flour and salt.
- Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture into an ungreased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Immediately sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips.
- Let stand about 5 minutes, then spread the chips evenly over the top.
- Cool completely and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using natural peanut butter, which can add a nice depth of flavor. If you're short on time, substitute 1 cup of store-bought chocolate frosting for the chocolate chips to save on prep. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch, or use almond butter for a different twist. This recipe is a great base to experiment with other flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These Buddy Bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or pair with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon break. They also make a great addition to dessert platters, especially during gatherings or as part of a holiday brunch, where they can complement pastries like the Holiday Brunch Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Buddy Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer them warm, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for a deliciously gooey treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buddy Bars contains roughly 158 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 nut butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still result in delicious bars. Ensure the nut butter is creamy to achieve the best texture.
Can I make these Buddy Bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your chocolate chips are also gluten-free, and your bars will be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when the Buddy Bars are done baking?
The Buddy Bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake, as they will continue to set as they cool.
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).