Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Delicious milk chocolate peanut butter bars combine rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a chewy, satisfying treat perfect for dessert or snack time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened margarine and peanut butter; beat until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; beat until creamy.
- Blend in flour and salt.
- Stir in 1 cup of the milk chocolate chips.
- Spread into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350° F for 25 to 30 minutes or until edges begin to brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use natural peanut butter instead of processed. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon. You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different taste. If you're looking for a healthier option, try replacing half of the flour with whole wheat flour as seen in Whole Grain Pancakes.
Serving Suggestions
These milk chocolate peanut butter bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside Paw Paw'S Creamy Pralines. Serve with a glass of cold milk for a delightful snack.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bars to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars contains roughly 299 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% 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 crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy in this recipe. It will add a nice texture and extra peanut flavor to the bars. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the overall consistency, but they will still be delicious!
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make these bars gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including chocolate chips and peanut butter, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I do if my bars are too dry?
If your bars turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the end of the baking time. If they are already baked, you can serve them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle melted chocolate on top to add moisture and enhance flavor.
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).