Peanut Butter 'N Fudge Bars
Decadent peanut butter and fudge bars combine rich chocolate, sweet oats, and creamy peanut butter for a delightful treat perfect for gatherings or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, beat brown sugar, butter, and 1/4 cup peanut butter until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the first mixture and mix well.
- Stir in oats and mix well.
- Save 1 cup of oat mixture and set aside.
- Spread the remaining oat mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. If you want to reduce the sugar, you can substitute half the brown sugar with applesauce. Additionally, for a nutty twist, fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Be sure to keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking, as the bars can dry out quickly.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a delicious dessert on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with Rich Chocolate Glaze. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a slice of Pear Bread Pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peanut Butter 'N Fudge Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds until warm and gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter 'N Fudge Bars contains roughly 243 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (26% 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 type of nut butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that each nut butter will slightly change the taste and texture, so choose one that you enjoy. Just ensure it's a similar consistency to peanut butter for the best results.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make Peanut Butter 'N Fudge Bars gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free oats and check that your baking soda is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious bars without the gluten. They are perfect for sharing with friends who have dietary restrictions.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Yes, adding chocolate chips is a great idea! You can mix in about a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness. This will enhance the fudgy texture and make the bars even more indulgent.
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).