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why make this recipe
Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars are a delightful treat for anyone who loves the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make. They are perfect for sharing with friends, a family gathering, or simply enjoying on your own. The chewy texture and sweet taste make them a great dessert or snack that everyone will love.
how to make Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Jif works best!)
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup M&M’s (optional for topping)
- 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Beat in the egg until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in M&M’s if using.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Let cool in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
how to serve Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars
You can serve these bars warm, straight from the oven, or allow them to cool completely. They are great on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for added sweetness.
how to store Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars
To store these bars, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them well to keep them fresh.
tips to make Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars
- Use Jif creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the dough; mixing until just combined will keep the bars chewy.
- For extra chocolate flavor, add chocolate chips in addition to M&M’s.
- You can sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty kick.
variation
Feel free to switch up the mix-ins! Instead of M&M’s, you can use chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits. You can also try using crunchy peanut butter for a bit of crunch in every bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer some texture in your bars.
Q: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A: The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but slightly soft. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the other ingredients you use are gluten-free as well.
Thick & Chewy Peanut Butter M&M Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful and easy-to-make peanut butter bars with a chewy texture, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Jif works best!)
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup M&M’s (optional for topping)
- 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Beat in the egg until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in M&M’s if using.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Let cool in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra chocolate flavor, add chocolate chips in addition to M&M’s. Consider sprinkling sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American