Indulge in the delightful flavors of Peanut Butter Passion Bars, where creamy peanut butter meets a luscious layer of cream cheese swirls. Rooted in the heartwarming tradition of American family desserts, these bars promise to satisfy any sweet tooth with their rich taste and appealing texture.
This post will guide you through crafting these bars from scratch, along with tips for variations and storing leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Irresistible Flavor: Combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients.
- Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special desserts.
- Appeal: Ideal for both dessert aficionados and those new to baking.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, diced (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- 9×13-inch baking dish, greased
- Mixing bowls
- Oven
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking soda.
- Prepare Base:
- Cut in the diced butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
- Press half of this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer:
- In another bowl, mix peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the base in the baking dish.
- Add Chocolate Chips:
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the peanut butter layer.
- Add Remaining Crumb Mixture:
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the chocolate chips.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice into bars and serve.
Tips and Variations:
- Nut Variations: Substitute chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a different texture.
- Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and oats for a gluten-free version.
Storing Leftovers:
- Store leftover Peanut Butter Passion Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving if desired.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze these bars? Yes, tightly wrap individual bars and freeze for up to one month.
- How do I know when they’re done baking? The bars should be golden brown around the edges.
Call to Action:
Try your hand at making these Peanut Butter Passion Bars and treat yourself to a taste sensation that’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for any occasion, these bars blend the best of peanut butter and creamy sweetness into every bite.