Name: Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter ((1 stick), melted); 1 large egg; 1 heaping cup SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel; 1 cup light brown sugar ((packed)); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips ((for sprinkling)); Salted caramel sauce ((for drizzling, homemade or store-bought))

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy bar that perfectly balances the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a luscious drizzle of salted caramel. These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of taste and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. They are easy to make, and the combination of ingredients creates a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are an absolute must-have in your dessert repertoire. A few reasons why this recipe is a keeper:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of salted caramel, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate is simply irresistible.
Easy to Make: With just one bowl and a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a potluck, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these bars are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with add-ins or toppings to make these bars your own.

What to Buy

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
1 large egg
1 heaping cup SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips + 2 tablespoons for sprinkling
Salted caramel sauce for drizzling (homemade or store-bought)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you start baking, gather the following kitchen gear to make the process as smooth as possible:

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine all your ingredients.
Whisk: For mixing the wet ingredients together.
Baking Pan: An 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for these bars.
Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Spatula: To spread the batter evenly in the pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.

The Method for Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Get ready to indulge in the delightful process of making these bars. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly and come out perfectly tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out once they’ve cooled.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, large egg, SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Stir in the Chocolate Chips

Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, reserving the extra 2 tablespoons for later. The chocolate should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolaty finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Drizzle

Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and onto a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce before cutting into squares.

Seasonal Spins

These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are versatile and can easily be adapted for different seasons. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Fall: Add chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy autumn twist.
Winter: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies for a festive flavor.
Spring: Mix in some chopped nuts and dried cranberries for a refreshing crunch.
Summer: Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light, summery treat.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

The choice of peanut butter is crucial; SKIPPY Peanut Butter Spread with Salted Caramel adds a unique flavor that elevates these bars.
Feel free to use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sun butter or any other nut-free spread.
These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you want to prepare these Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars ahead of time, consider the following tips:

You can make the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
These bars freeze beautifully! Cut them into squares and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Let the bars cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture.

Reader Q&A

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the bars, giving them an extra bit of crunch.

What can I substitute for the salted caramel sauce?

If you don’t have salted caramel sauce, you can use melted chocolate or a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk as a drizzle instead.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for a golden edge and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with a few crumbs clinging to it.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Yes! Chopped peanuts or any of your favorite nuts can be added for extra flavor and crunch. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making these Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars, it’s time to gather your friends and family to indulge in this sensational treat. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet end to your dinner, these bars are sure to impress.

The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone raving, and you’ll be proud to say you made them from scratch. So grab a plate, cut yourself a generous square, and dig in! You deserve it. Enjoy every bite of your Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars!