Irresistible Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to serve at your next party or gathering, these peanut butter shortbread bars are just what you need.

With a buttery shortbread base, a rich peanut butter layer, and a smooth chocolate topping, they’re sure to be a hit at any celebration—whether it’s a BBQ, picnic, or birthday party.

These bars are simple to make, but they’ll impress everyone who tries them!

 

A picture of three peanut butter shorbread cookie bars on a plate with rosebuds.

 

Ingredients You’ll Need For This Recipe:

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 20

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
  • Flakey sea salt, optional

 

A picture of ingredients to make peanut butter shortbread cookie bars.

 

Step-by-step Guide:

1 – Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking pan with a piece of parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.

 

A picture of sugar, butter, and peanut butter in a bowl whisked until smooth.

 

2 – Add 5 tablespoons of peanut butter and the vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.

 

A picture of sugar, butter, and peanut butter in a bowl whisked until smooth.

 

3 – Add flour and cornstarch. Combine into a dough using a spoon or your hands.

 

A picture of a paenut butter mixture in a bowl with flour placed on top.

 

A picture of a bowl of peanut butter shortbread dough in a bowl.

 

4 – Press the peanut butter shortbread into the prepared baking pan and transfer into the oven to bake until lightly browned, approximately 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes.

 

A picture of raw peanut butter shortbread dough in a baking pan.

 

A picture of fully baked peanut butter shortbread dough in a baking pan.

 

5 – In the meantime, melt the chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of peanut butter.

 

A picture of chocolate squares in a bowl.

 

A picture of melted chocolate in a bowl with peanut butter.

 

6 – Spread the chocolate mixture over the shortbread and top with peanuts and flakey salt.

 

A picture of melted chocolate and peanut butter in a bowl with peanuts and shortbread nearby.

 

A picture of peanut butter shortbread covered with chocolate and crushed peanuts.

 

7 – Allow to cool completely until the chocolate sets before slicing and serving.

 

A picture of a cut tray of peanut butter shortbread bars with two slices on a separate plate.

 

Enjoy!

 

A close up picture of three peanut butter shortbread bars on a plate.

 

Pro Tips for Success:

  • Add a twist: Try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture and extra peanut flavor.
  • Make ahead: These bars hold up well in the fridge. Make them the day before your event and let the flavors set overnight.
  • Customize the toppings: You can switch up the toppings by using different nuts or adding a drizzle of caramel for even more sweetness!

 

A close up picture of peanut butter shortbread in a baking pan uncut.

 

These peanut butter shortbread bars are a fun, easy dessert that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or any celebration where you need a delicious treat. Rich and decadent, they’ll satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth while adding a touch of fun to your spread.

So what are you waiting for? Get to baking this Irresistible Peanut Butter Shortbread Bars recipe and enjoy every bite!

koi
koi

Related Posts