Peanut Butter Fudge Bars (Printable)

Soft peanut butter bars with luscious chocolate fudge topping. Satisfying and easy to make.

# What's Needed:

→ Peanut Butter Base

01 - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Chocolate Fudge Topping

09 - 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
11 - 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and packed brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and fluffy.
03 - Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until thoroughly combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
06 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
07 - Combine semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
08 - Stir creamy peanut butter into the melted chocolate mixture until fully blended.
09 - Pour fudge topping over cooled peanut butter base. Spread evenly with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
10 - Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars from the pan. Slice into 16 squares and serve.

# Tips for Success:

01 -
  • Uses pantry staples so you likely have what you need on hand
  • Ready in about an hour including cooling time perfect for last-minute desserts
  • Crowd-pleaser with rich peanut butter and creamy chocolate layers
  • Flexible for variations with nutty additions or swaps like almond butter
02 -
  • Vegetarian treat great for most eaters
  • High energy from protein and healthy fats
  • Easy to freeze for portioned snacks later
03 -
  • Always use fresh baking powder for the best rise
  • Press the base evenly so every bar bakes the same
  • Chill fully before slicing for sharp clean layers
  • If you prefer a less sweet topping use dark chocolate chips
  • To make the base extra chewy do not skip creaming butter and sugar until pale and fluffy

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