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Indulge your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars! Perfect as a snack or a dessert, these delightful bars are a harmonious blend of buttery shortbread and creamy peanut butter, topped with a luscious dark chocolate finish. They are simple to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them an ideal choice for gatherings, potlucks, or just a special treat at home.
These bars are not just tasty but also have the charming combination of flavors that many love. The lightness of the buttery shortbread melts in your mouth, while the rich peanut butter adds a nutty depth. And who can resist the smooth, decadent dark chocolate layer? Plus, they are easy to slice and serve, making them a perfect grab-and-go treat.
Along with their irresistible taste, there’s something nostalgic about peanut butter desserts; they remind many of childhood lunches and simple pleasures. I remember coming home from school and digging into a peanut butter treat, and these bars bring back all those lovely memories!
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
- Flaky sea salt, optional
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add 5 tablespoons of peanut butter and the vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
- Mix in the flour and cornstarch until a dough forms.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt the chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler, then stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of peanut butter.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the cooled shortbread, topping with chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Let it cool completely until the chocolate sets before slicing into bars. Enjoy!
These Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars are a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or perhaps your favorite coffee for an afternoon delight. The best part? They are quick to prepare, which means more time to enjoy with loved ones! Have you tried making these bars yet? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
