Name: Chewy Glazed Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486236H51M16S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

These chewy glazed peanut butter cookie bars are soft and packed with rich peanut butter flavor, topped with a sweet, shiny glaze that adds just the right amount of indulgence to every bite. They’re perfect for satisfying any dessert craving or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Meanwhile, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to make the glaze.

Pour the glaze over the cooled cookie bars and spread it evenly. Let the glaze set before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 16 bars. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 40 minutes. These bars are great for a quick baking project with rewarding results.

Variations

I often experiment by adding chopped peanuts or chocolate chips into the dough for extra texture and flavor. Swapping creamy peanut butter for natural or crunchy varieties changes the texture slightly, which I enjoy depending on my mood. You can also try a drizzle of melted chocolate instead of the glaze for a richer finish.

Storage/reheating

I store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want them softer, I let them come to room temperature before eating or briefly warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature and refresh the glaze if needed.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but it may change the texture slightly since it tends to be less smooth and more oily. I recommend stirring natural peanut butter thoroughly before measuring.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

I look for golden edges and a toothpick inserted in the center to come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. This helps keep the bars chewy rather than dry.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help keep the texture.

Is there a way to make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Yes, if you want a thicker glaze, I add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, I add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the consistency I like.

Can I skip the glaze?

Absolutely! The bars are delicious on their own with that rich peanut butter flavor. The glaze adds extra sweetness and a pretty finish, but the cookie bars work well without it.

Conclusion

I find these chewy glazed peanut butter cookie bars to be a perfect treat when I want something comforting and sweet without too much fuss. They balance rich peanut butter taste with a soft, chewy texture and a delicate glaze that makes them feel special. Whether I’m baking for myself, family, or friends, these bars always disappear quickly.