Next, I add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring that each is well incorporated before moving on to the next. I toss in the vanilla extract, which adds an amazing depth of flavor. After that, I sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually mix it into the wet ingredients. This step is crucial because it ensures that every bar is perfectly fluffy and avoids any lumps. If you want to add some chocolate chips for an extra treat, now’s the time to fold them in gently!
Once everything is mixed, I line my 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, but you can also grease it if you prefer. I pour the batter into the pan, smoothing it out evenly. The batter is thick and luscious, and I can’t resist sneaking a taste (I recommend you do the same!). Finally, I pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell of these bars baking is heavenly, and I usually find it hard to wait to dig in!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve made these Peanut Butter Bars a few times with different brands of peanut butter, and I can say, using a good-quality creamy peanut butter makes a noticeable difference. I once tried using a natural peanut butter that had separation, and the texture was a bit crumbly in comparison. Stick with a well-mixed, classic brand, and you can’t go wrong!
Another tip I’d share from my many rounds of testing is to keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is a bit different, and I learned that underbaking leads to gooey bars that are hard to slice, while overbaking makes them dry. I often check them a few minutes before the timer goes off, just to ensure they’re perfectly baked.
Lastly, let these bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before trying to cut them. It may seem tempting to dive right in, but giving them time to set helps them hold together better and makes for cleaner slices. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made early on was not measuring my peanut butter correctly. I scooped out what I thought was a cup, but it turned out to be far too generous! The result? A gooey mess that didn’t set properly. Make sure to level off that measuring cup for accuracy! (See the next page below to continue…)