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Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. -
Mix the wet ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. -
Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick. -
Fold in the chocolate chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips (and chopped peanuts, if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough. -
Transfer to the pan:
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure it’s spread out evenly. -
Bake the bars:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake. -
Cool and cut:
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve warm: These bars are delicious when served warm, with the chocolate chips still gooey, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Variants:
- Add-ins: Try adding other mix-ins like M&Ms, white chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows for a fun twist.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based egg substitute (like flax eggs) to make this recipe vegan.
- Nut-Free Version: If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the peanut butter and peanuts and use a nut-free alternative like sunflower seed butter.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of peanut butter?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer extra texture in your bars. Just make sure to use creamy peanut butter if you want a smoother, more consistent dough.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can substitute with white chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time. Once baked, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for several days.