Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with a buttery crumble topping. These bars feature a soft, chewy base layered with creamy peanut butter and melted chocolate, finished with a crisp, golden crumble. Perfect for dessert, potlucks, or an indulgent snack, these bars offer the ultimate sweet and salty balance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines chocolate and peanut butter for a classic, irresistible flavor.
- Features a buttery, crumbly texture with a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to special events.
- Stores well and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Rolled oats
- Brown sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Peanut butter
- Chocolate chips
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Press half of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish to form the base.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the peanut butter over the crumble base, followed by the melted chocolate mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped peanuts or almonds to the crumble mixture.
- Darker Chocolate Flavor: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
- Sweeter Version: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.
FAQs
How do I make the bars extra gooey?
To make the bars extra gooey, slightly underbake them by reducing the baking time by 2–3 minutes.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture.
Can I substitute peanut butter with almond butter?
Yes, almond butter or cashew butter works well as a substitute.
What type of chocolate chips should I use?
You can use milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate chips based on your preference.
Can I add more peanut butter?
Yes, but be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the texture of the bars.
How do I prevent the crumble from becoming too dry?
Ensure you are using enough butter to keep the crumble moist and hold it together.
Can I use sweetened peanut butter?
Yes, but the bars may turn out sweeter than intended. Adjust the sugar if needed.
Can I add a layer of caramel?
Yes, a thin layer of caramel can enhance the flavor and add extra gooeyness.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Crumble Bars are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them an excellent treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these bars deliver a rich, satisfying taste with every bite. Try different variations to suit your preferences and enjoy this delicious homemade dessert!
Print
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 sandwich cooki 1x
Description
These Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies are the perfect combination of chewy peanut butter cookies, gooey marshmallow, and rich melted chocolate. A nostalgic campfire treat turned into a delicious dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 12 large marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chocolate spread or melted chocolate
- Peanut butter drizzle (optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix peanut butter, sugars, egg, vanilla, and baking soda in a bowl until smooth.
- Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
- Spread chocolate on half the cookies.
- Toast marshmallows and place them between the cookies to form a sandwich.
- Drizzle with extra peanut butter if desired.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, add crushed graham crackers to the cookies.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes