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### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the bars come out easily.
2. **Mix wet ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and well combined. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Add eggs and vanilla**: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. **Mix dry ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bars.
5. **Fold in peanut butter chips (optional)**: If you want an extra peanut butter punch, fold in the peanut butter chips to the dough. These will add an additional layer of peanut butter flavor and a bit of extra sweetness.
6. **Spread in pan**: Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and press it down gently to fill the pan.
7. **Bake the bars**: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bars are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The bars should be firm to the touch and slightly puffed up.
8. **Cool and slice**: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This will help them set and make them easier to cut into squares or rectangles. Once cooled, slice into your desired portion sizes and enjoy!
### Tips:
– **Consistency**: These bars should be soft, chewy, and slightly firm. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can bake them a bit longer, but keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
– **Add-ins**: Feel free to customize your peanut butter cookie bars with additional mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a swirl of Nutella for an extra layer of indulgence.
– **Storage**: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. These bars also freeze well, so you can store them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month and thaw them when you’re ready to enjoy them.
### Variations:
– **Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars**: For a delicious twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookie bars or swirl it into the dough before baking for a rich, chocolatey contrast.
– **Crunchy Peanut Butter Bars**: If you prefer a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter in the dough instead of creamy. You can also add in chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
– **Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars**: Add a layer of your favorite fruit jelly (such as strawberry or grape) in between two layers of peanut butter dough for a fun twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
### Serving Suggestions:
These **Classic Peanut Butter Cookie Bars** are perfect for any occasion. Serve them at family gatherings, school bake sales, or as an after-school snack. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
### Conclusion:
These **Classic Peanut Butter Cookie Bars** are everything you love about peanut butter cookies, but in an easy-to-make, convenient bar form. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, flavorful dessert that everyone will enjoy. The combination of peanut butter and sugar, with a soft, chewy texture, makes these bars a deliciously satisfying treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these bars will not disappoint. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the delicious nutty goodness of peanut butter in every bite!
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