Buttery Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars

These Buttery Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars are a crowd-pleasing treat, featuring rich peanut butter, crumbly shortbread, and chocolate

These peanut butter shortbread bars are going to be your new obsession

If you're a fan of peanut butter and crave a sweet treat, these peanut butter shortbread bars are going to be your new obsession. Imagine a buttery, crumbly base topped with a luscious layer of creamy peanut butter, all finished off with a chocolate drizzle. It's a delightful combination that's perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.

These bars are incredibly simple to make

These bars are incredibly simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them an ideal choice for a quick dessert or an afternoon snack. In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these peanut butter shortbread bars are sure to be a hit.

Visual Appeal of Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars

The presentation of peanut butter shortbread bars is a feast for the eyes. Neatly cut into squares, these bars display a delightful contrast between the golden crumbly shortbread and the creamy peanut butter layer.

A luscious drizzle of melted chocolate adds a luxurious touch, while the chopped peanuts sprinkled on top provide a satisfying crunch. This visual combination not only tempts the taste buds but also creates an inviting atmosphere for any dessert table.

The Perfect Pairing

No dessert is complete without the right accompaniment. A glass of cold milk beside the plate enhances the overall experience, transforming a simple treat into a classic indulgence.

The creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate are beautifully balanced by the refreshing taste of milk, making each bite even more enjoyable. This pairing is a nod to childhood nostalgia, bringing back memories of enjoying cookies and milk after school.

Texture that Delights

These shortbread bars boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible. The buttery shortbread base crumbles perfectly, while the creamy peanut butter layer adds a smooth, rich consistency.

Each bite presents a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, inviting you to savor every moment. The addition of chocolate and chopped peanuts not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a delightful crunch that keeps your palate engaged.

Easy Preparation

Making these peanut butter shortbread bars is an uncomplicated process, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. The straightforward steps make it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

With just a little bit of time, you can create a delectable dessert that will impress your family and friends. This ease of preparation allows you to whip up a batch for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a special celebration.

The Allure of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is the star of this recipe, bringing its unique flavor and creamy texture to the forefront. This beloved ingredient adds a nostalgic element that many people adore.

The sweet and salty notes of peanut butter complement the chocolate drizzle beautifully, creating a captivating combination that resonates with dessert lovers. Each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures that good food brings.

A Homemade Touch

Serving peanut butter shortbread bars on a rustic wooden countertop enhances their homemade charm. The natural elements of wood provide a warm and inviting backdrop that accentuates the bars’ appealing appearance.

This cozy presentation invites guests to gather around and enjoy the sweet treat together, fostering a sense of connection and enjoyment. The simplicity of the setting reflects the heartfelt effort put into making these bars, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Irresistible Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars Recipe

These peanut butter shortbread bars feature a rich, buttery shortbread crust topped with velvety peanut butter and finished with a layer of chocolate. The taste is a delightful balance of sweet and salty, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

1 stick softened butter
½ c. light brown sugar
¼ c. white sugar
½ c. peanut butter, divided
1 t. pure vanilla extract
2 c. all-purpose flour
2 T. cornstarch
5 oz. dark chocolate
¼ c. chopped peanuts
Flakey sea salt, optional

Directions

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This will make it so much easier to lift the bars out later—trust me, it’s a game-changer!
2. Cream the Goodness:
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for that perfect texture! Add 5 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then whisk until everything is smooth and dreamy.
3. Bring the Dough Together:
   Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the butter mixture. Use a spoon or your hands (I love getting my hands in there—it’s so satisfying!) to combine everything into a soft, crumbly dough.
4. Press & Bake:
   Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s nice and smooth—this will be the base for all that deliciousness! Pop it into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once it’s done, let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Patience is hard, but it’s worth it!
5. Melt the Chocolate:
   While the shortbread is cooling, melt 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips in the microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring in between) or using a double boiler. Once the chocolate is smooth and glossy, stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of peanut butter. This combo is pure magic!
6. Layer & Decorate:
   Spread the chocolate-peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled shortbread. Sprinkle the top with chopped peanuts and a pinch of flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
7. Set & Slice:
   Let the bars cool completely until the chocolate is set. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the fridge to speed things up. Once they’re firm, use the parchment paper to lift the slab out of the pan and slice into squares or bars.
8. Serve & Savor:
   Arrange your beautiful Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars on a platter and watch them disappear! These are perfect with a cup of coffee, as a treat for the kids, or as a sweet gift for a friend.

Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share—because food made with love is always better when it’s shared! 💛

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 20 bars
• Calories: 280kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 29g

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