Description

Rich, chewy, and totally irresistible, these Peanut Butter Passion Bars are a peanut butter lover’s dream! With a soft cookie-like base, layers of chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and a sweet, gooey topping, they strike the perfect balance between salty and sweet. Whether you’re baking for a party, potluck, or just to satisfy a serious craving, these dessert bars are guaranteed to be a hit.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt

For the Topping:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup peanut butter (melted, for drizzling)

Optional Add-ins:

Peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips
Crushed pretzels for extra salty crunch
Flaky sea salt for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy lifting.
Lightly grease or spray the parchment.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Beat in the egg, vanilla, and peanut butter until well combined.
Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the base.
Add chopped peanuts if using.
Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the entire surface.
Finish with a warm drizzle of melted peanut butter for extra richness.

Step 4: Bake & Cool

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Cool completely in the pan before slicing to allow the bars to firm up.

Step 5: Slice & Serve

Once cool, lift out the bars using the parchment overhang.
Slice into squares or rectangles and serve at room temperature.
Store in an airtight container or wrap individually for grab-and-go treats.

Notes

Use Creamy Peanut Butter – For the smoothest texture and richest flavor.
Cool Completely – Let the bars cool to get clean, gooey-but-firm slices.
Don’t Overbake – They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Layer Evenly – Spread each ingredient across the whole pan to ensure every bite has flavor and texture.
Double the Recipe – Make a 9×13-inch pan for parties or freezing extras.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American