Peanut Butter Crumble Bars
Sweet and crunchy peanut butter crumble bars feature a buttery, nutty flavor with a caramelized topping, perfect for snack times, picnics, or satisfying dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat together sugar, brown sugar, shortening, peanut butter, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the mixture.
- Press the remaining dough into an ungreased 13 x 9-inch (33 x 23 cm) baking pan.
- Mix the reserved 1 1/2 cups of dough with candies (peanut).
- Crumble this mixture over the pressed dough, pressing lightly.
- Bake until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter. If you want a nut-free alternative, you can substitute sunflower seed butter. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. To add a bit of texture, mix in some rolled oats or chocolate chips. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars warm or at room temperature as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of Oostdyk'S Hot Fudge Sauce for an indulgent treat. For a balanced meal, serve alongside Pork Chops Or Chicken to create a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peanut Butter Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, place the bars in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Crumble Bars contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the bars. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the consistency of the dough, making it a bit thicker and adding more crunchiness to each bite.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce for binding. Use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil instead of regular shortening, and ensure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly. The bars will still be delicious!
How can I add more flavor to the bars?
You can enhance the bars' flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits can also elevate the taste. For a twist, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
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).