Name: Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter; 1 large Egg; 1/3 cup SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel; 1 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; Salted Caramel Sauce

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There’s something magical about sweet treats that bring back childhood memories, and Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are no exception. Picture yourself after a long day, craving a dessert that combines the richness of peanut butter, the decadence of chocolate, and a hint of salted caramel. I remember the first time I made these bars; it was a rainy afternoon, and my kitchen filled with the warm, inviting scent of melting butter and sugar. As I stirred the ingredients together, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that something incredible was about to emerge from my oven. This recipe quickly became a favorite in our home, thanks to its simplicity and its ability to please just about anyone with a sweet tooth.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
27 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
22 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a sweet indulgence on a weekday. They’re easy to make, and the ingredients come together to form a chewy, rich dessert that’s hard to resist. The combination of creamy peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates a delightful balance of flavors, while the drizzle of salted caramel on top adds that extra touch of indulgence. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Why You Need This Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Irresistible Flavor Combination

One of the best things about Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars is the flavor synergy. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate chips, creating a mouthwatering experience. When you add in the salted caramel drizzle, it becomes an unforgettable treat that is both sweet and savory.

Easy to Make

This recipe is incredibly straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time. It’s perfect for beginner bakers who want to impress their friends or seasoned chefs looking for a quick dessert option.

Perfect for Sharing

These bars are ideal for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to bring something sweet to work, these treats are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to cut into generous squares, making them the perfect party dessert.

Customizable Toppings

While the salted caramel drizzle is a must, these bars can be customized in many ways. You can add nuts for crunch, or even more chocolate chips if you’re a true chocolate lover. This flexibility allows you to make the recipe your own every time!

Long-lasting Sweetness

Once baked, these bars can last up to a week if stored properly. They’re perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for a busy week. Just keep them in an airtight container, and you’ll have a sweet treat ready whenever you need it.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

The ingredients for Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars come together in a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating this delightful treat. The key players in this recipe are the creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate chips, and the sweet yet salty caramel sauce. Together, they form a decadent dessert that will satisfy any sweet craving.

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted): The base for our bars, adding richness and moisture.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together while providing structure.
1/3 heaping cup SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel: Infuses the bars with creamy peanut flavor and a hint of caramel.
1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds sweetness and helps to create a chewy texture.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bars.
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips + 2 tablespoons (for sprinkling): The star ingredient, providing delightful chocolatey bites throughout the bars.
Salted caramel sauce (for drizzling, homemade or store-bought): The finishing touch that takes these bars to the next level.

Recipe Steps for Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Let’s get started on making these delicious Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars. Trust me, the process is just as enjoyable as the final product. You’ll be whisking, melting, and mixing your way to a heavenly dessert!

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an important first step to ensure your bars bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. I like to let the foil hang over the edges to make it easier to lift the bars out later.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 1 minute on high power. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating. Once it’s melted, let it cool briefly before moving on to the next step.
Now, it’s time to add the egg. Wait a moment for the butter to cool down slightly so you don’t scramble the egg. Add the egg, peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla to the bowl. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Next, add in the flour and salt. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! The texture should be slightly lumpy.
Now comes the fun part! Stir in the chocolate chips. I usually reserve a couple of tablespoons to sprinkle on top later. This ensures that each bite has that delicious chocolatey goodness.
Turn the batter out into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top lightly. This helps create an even surface for baking.
Evenly sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the top. Gently press them down with your fingertips or spatula, ensuring they stick to the batter.
Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. It’s essential not to overbake, as they will firm up as they cool.
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial because it gives the bars time to set. After cooling, drizzle with salted caramel before slicing into generous squares.
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or they can be frozen for up to 6 months. They’re great for meal prep!

Things Worth Knowing

Let the butter cool: Ensure the melted butter is not too hot when adding the egg to avoid cooking it.
Use quality chocolate chips: Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor.
Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different.
Allow to cool: Don’t rush the cooling process; this is key to achieving the right texture.

Make It Your Own

These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are versatile and can be tailored to your tastes! Let’s explore some tips to customize this recipe.

Add nuts: You can incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Experiment with chocolate: Try using dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger pan.
Try different spreads: If you’re a fan of other nut butters, feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter.
Creative toppings: Top with crushed cookies or sprinkles for a fun twist on presentation.

What Complements This Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

When serving your Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, consider these delightful pairings:

Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream on the side makes for an indulgent dessert.
Fresh fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Coffee: These bars pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or espresso, enhancing the flavors.
Picnic treats: Cut them into smaller squares for easy sharing at picnics or gatherings.
Gifts: Wrap them up in decorative packaging to give as gifts for friends or family.

FAQ

While you can use natural peanut butter, it might change the texture slightly since natural peanut butter is less sweet and has more oil. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar to balance it out. If you’re looking for a more indulgent flavor, I recommend sticking with the creamy peanut butter spread with salted caramel for the best results.

To store your Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can also freeze them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to six months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Absolutely! To make gluten-free Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including baking soda and chocolate chips, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy these delicious bars without any gluten worries!

If you don’t have salted caramel sauce on hand, you can make your own by melting caramel candies with a little bit of cream and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, you can top the bars with chocolate ganache or a simple icing made with powdered sugar and milk. Each of these options will provide a delicious twist to the original recipe!

Conclusion

The Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are truly a delightful combination of flavors and textures that anyone can enjoy. They bring a nostalgic comfort while being incredibly easy to make. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to share with friends and family. Whether for a special occasion or just a simple dessert, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your home.