If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that combine rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, then you’re going to adore these Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars! The perfect sweet treat to elevate your baking repertoire, these bars are a delightful fusion of buttery shortbread and creamy peanut butter. With simple ingredients and a convenient prep time of just 10 minutes, you can whip up a batch that’ll charm family and friends alike.
What makes these bars especially appealing is their versatile nature; they serve wonderfully as a casual dessert or a luxurious coffee break snack. Each bite brings together the nutty notes of peanut butter with the crunch of dark chocolate and a sprinkle of flakey sea salt, creating a sweet and savory sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, they are not only delicious but also easy to make!
But these Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars aren’t just about flavor; they come packed with benefits too. Peanut butter is a great source of protein, making these bars more than just your average sweet treat. They’re ideal for those needing an energy boost during a busy day. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them during a quiet evening at home, they are sure to be a hit!
I still remember the first time I baked these bars—it was for a potluck with friends. I was a little nervous, but as soon as they were out of the oven, the warm, inviting aroma filled the kitchen. The moment I took a bite, the unexpected combination of flavors was a revelation!
Ingredients
- 1 stick softened butter
- 1/2 c. light brown sugar
- 1/4 c. white sugar
- 1/2 c. peanut butter, divided
- 1 t. pure vanilla extract
- 2 c. all-purpose flour
- 2 T. cornstarch
- 5 oz. dark chocolate
- 1/4 c. chopped peanuts
- Flakey sea salt, optional
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking pan with a piece of parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add 5 tablespoons of peanut butter and the vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
- Add flour and cornstarch, and combine into a dough using a spoon or your hands.
- Press the peanut butter shortbread into the prepared baking pan and transfer into the oven to bake until lightly browned, approximately 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes.
- In the meantime, melt the chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of peanut butter.
- Spread the chocolate mixture over the shortbread and top with peanuts and flakey salt.
- Allow to cool completely until the chocolate sets before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Now that you have this easy, delightful recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to impress your taste buds! Pair these scrumptious bars with a glass of cold milk or even a cup of hot coffee for the ultimate treat. Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below!
