One Pan Chocolate Peanut Bars
Delicious one-pan chocolate peanut bars combine sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors with a crispy texture, perfect for satisfying snack cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Mix brown sugar, softened butter, vanilla, and egg yolk with a fork in an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular pan.
- Stir in Bisquick baking mix until moistened.
- Press the mixture evenly into the pan.
- Bake until light brown, about 16 to 18 minutes.
- Immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the baked mixture.
- Let stand for 3 to 4 minutes until the chocolate chips are softened.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the surface.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top.
- Cut into bars about 2 x 1.5 inches.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting almond butter for the softened butter and add a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought chocolate frosting instead of melting chocolate chips. Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the pan for a nice, even bar texture. Also, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for a sweet-savory combination.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate peanut bars are perfect for sharing at parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a refreshing Pineapple Orange Molded Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate peanut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just softened, ensuring not to melt the chocolate topping again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Pan Chocolate Peanut Bars contains roughly 164 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 12g 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?
Absolutely! While chopped peanuts provide a great crunch, feel free to substitute with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even pecans for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the nuts are roasted for the best taste and texture.
What if I don't have Bisquick?
If you don't have Bisquick, you can easily make your own by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This homemade mix works just as well in this recipe.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by using a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work well in sweet recipes, ensuring you can enjoy this treat without gluten.
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).