These peanut butter cookie bars are pure magic — soft, chewy, and ready in just 25 minutes. Made with only three simple ingredients, they’re naturally gluten-free and loaded with that nostalgic, nutty flavor you love. No flour, no fuss — just golden edges, gooey centers, and the perfect melt-in-your-mouth bite.
There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of peanut butter baking in the oven. It’s that warm, nutty aroma that fills your kitchen and instantly feels like home. For me, these Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are the ultimate “lazy day” dessert — the kind that makes everyone think you spent hours baking when it actually took less than half an hour.
I started making this recipe years ago when I needed a quick treat that didn’t require fancy ingredients. Just a jar of creamy peanut butter, a couple of pantry staples, and a mixing bowl — that’s it. What came out of the oven was everything I wanted in a cookie bar: chewy edges, soft centers, and the kind of peanut butter flavor that keeps you coming back for another square.
Because they’re naturally gluten-free, they’ve also become a family favorite for gatherings — even my friends who usually skip desserts can’t resist these. And yes, you can totally add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top (because balance is everything, right?).
When I bake these bars, I like to use my Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale to measure the peanut butter precisely. It keeps the texture consistent every single time. If you’re new to baking or just like keeping things easy, this little gadget is a game-changer — compact, reliable, and simple to clean. You can see all specs and color options using the link below.
I’ll walk you through every step — from mixing to slicing — and share a few of my favorite add-ins (think dark chocolate chips, a touch of vanilla, or chopped peanuts for extra crunch).
While you’re here, you might also love my other easy dessert recipes like:
They’re all simple, wholesome treats that feel indulgent without the effort — exactly how dessert should be.
So grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and let’s make a batch of the softest, chewiest Peanut Butter Cookie Bars you’ll ever taste.
Explore the Steps
Ingredients & Prep — The Easiest Peanut Butter Cookie Bars Ever
Sometimes, the best desserts come from the simplest ingredients — and these gluten-free peanut butter cookie bars prove it. With only three pantry staples, you’ll have a chewy, golden batch cooling on your counter in no time.
Whether you’re baking for a weeknight treat or prepping something sweet for friends, this is one of those “set it and forget it” recipes that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened or natural works best)
- ½ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 large egg (for binding — room temperature preferred)
That’s it! Just three ingredients for the base. But if you want to make them your own, here are a few optional add-ins I recommend:
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (melty chocolate swirls are irresistible)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for a richer, rounder flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (balances the sweetness perfectly)
If you’re watching your portions or want consistency, I highly suggest using the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale. It makes measuring sticky ingredients like peanut butter so much easier — and it’s one of those tools you’ll reach for every day.
Substitutions & Gluten-Free Notes
- Nut-free version: Swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
- Sugar alternatives: Coconut sugar or a brown sugar substitute (like erythritol blend) both work beautifully.
- Egg-free option: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 mins). The texture will be slightly softer, but still chewy.
- Add crunch: Stir in chopped roasted peanuts or sprinkle a few on top before baking.
These swaps keep the bars gluten-free and customizable, without losing that classic cookie taste.
Tools You’ll Need
Making these bars is as easy as stirring, pressing, and baking — no mixer needed! But a few tools make the process even smoother:
- Mixing bowl and rubber spatula
- 8×8-inch baking pan, lined with parchment paper or Vailnd 8-Inch Air Fryer Paper Liners (these unbleached liners make cleanup so much easier)
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs Set – great for handling hot trays or lifting the bars once cooled; heat-safe and non-slip
- Wire cooling rack (optional but helps keep the texture perfect)
💡 Pro Tip: Using parchment or disposable liners is a small trick that saves you from scrubbing sticky peanut butter residue later.
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookie Bars (Soft, Chewy & Gluten-Free)
These 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie bars are soft, chewy, and naturally gluten-free. Made with just creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and an egg, they come together in under 25 minutes for a cozy, classic treat that tastes homemade and irresistibly rich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
1 large egg (room temperature)
Optional Add-Ins:
¼ cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.Combine the Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the peanut butter, brown sugar, and egg. Stir together using a spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture is thick, smooth, and creamy.Add Optional Mix-Ins
Fold in any optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, or a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor. Mix just until combined.Spread the Batter
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press and smooth the mixture evenly into the corners.Bake the Bars
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center looks slightly set. Do not overbake — the bars will firm up as they cool.Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and set on a cooling rack.Slice and Serve
Once fully cooled, cut into 9 large or 12 small bars. Enjoy them warm for a gooey texture or chilled for a denser, chewy bite.
Notes
For a nut-free version, use almond or sunflower seed butter.
Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
These chewy, gluten-free peanut butter cookie bars are as foolproof as they come — and they make the whole kitchen smell like a cozy bakery.
Step-by-Step Instructions — Soft, Chewy, and Perfect Every Time
These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars couldn’t be easier — everything mixes up in one bowl, bakes in under 20 minutes, and cools into thick, chewy squares that taste like the best part of a peanut butter cookie: the soft center.
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or use Vailnd 8-Inch Air Fryer Paper Liners — they fit perfectly in standard baking pans, prevent sticking, and make cleanup a breeze. You can check full details and sizing options using the link below.
If you’re using a metal pan, lightly grease the sides with nonstick spray to help the bars release easily after baking.
2. Mix the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
Stir everything together using a spatula until smooth and glossy. The mixture should feel thick but spreadable.
If you like, fold in your optional add-ins now — chocolate chips, vanilla extract, or chopped nuts. Each variation adds a slightly different texture and flavor, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
💡 Pro Tip: If your peanut butter is extra stiff, warm it in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to make mixing easier.
3. Spread and Smooth
Transfer the dough to your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your spatula to press it evenly into the corners — it doesn’t have to be perfect!
I like to keep a set of TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs nearby when I bake; they’re perfect for adjusting the parchment or handling hot trays safely. You can check full details and available colors using the link below.
Once the batter is smooth, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top (optional but highly recommended for that sweet-salty balance).
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the top looks golden and slightly cracked. The center should still feel a bit soft — that’s the secret to chewy cookie bars.
For best results, don’t overbake. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
🕒 Doneness cue: When the edges pull slightly away from the pan and the top looks set with a light sheen, they’re done.
5. Cool, Slice, and Enjoy
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps them set and prevents crumbling.
Use your silicone tongs or lift the parchment gently to transfer the bars to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, cut into 9 large squares or 12 smaller ones.
Serve them warm for that soft, gooey texture, or chill in the fridge for a denser, fudgier bite.
Flavor Variations
Want to take your Peanut Butter Cookie Bars up a notch? Try these simple twists:
- Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and let it set before slicing.
- Crunchy Peanut Bar: Use crunchy peanut butter and fold in chopped roasted peanuts.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Add a light drizzle of caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky salt.
Each variation stays naturally gluten-free and gives the bars their own personality — perfect for different moods or occasions.
Storage Tips
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the fridge: Keeps for up to 1 week — the texture becomes firmer and extra chewy.
- In the freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
💡 Meal-prep tip: These bars freeze beautifully, so make a double batch — one for now, one for later!
Nutrition & Benefits — Simple Ingredients, Delicious Balance
One of the reasons I love these Peanut Butter Cookie Bars is that they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. They’re naturally gluten-free, protein-rich from the peanut butter, and satisfying enough to enjoy with just one square — though no one ever stops at one! Each ingredient plays a role in creating the chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor that makes these bars so irresistible.
| Nutritional Info (per bar) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Sugars | 11g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
(Values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and add-ins.)
Why These Bars Are Naturally Balanced
Peanut Butter: Besides being the star flavor, peanut butter provides a solid source of healthy fats and plant-based protein. It helps keep you fuller longer and gives the bars their creamy, chewy texture. For the best results, use a natural peanut butter made with just peanuts and salt — no added oils or sugar.
Eggs: One large egg binds everything together and gives the bars a soft, dense crumb. You can replace it with a flax egg if you prefer a vegan option, but the texture will be slightly softer.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and moisture while giving that signature caramel undertone. If you want a refined-sugar-free version, coconut sugar works beautifully.
Because these bars are flourless, they’re naturally gluten-free — no specialty flours needed. And if you stick to three ingredients, they also happen to be dairy-free, making them friendly for a wide range of dietary needs.
Smart Indulgence Tips
When it comes to dessert, moderation is everything. These cookie bars satisfy that craving for something rich and sweet, but with fewer processed ingredients than most packaged treats. I like to pair one bar with a small cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon — it’s that little “reward moment” that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
If you enjoy dessert-style snacks with a healthy twist, you’ll probably love my Cottage Cheese Ice Cream and 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain. Both are proof that nourishing your body and enjoying dessert can absolutely coexist.
Health Note
Peanut butter is calorie-dense, so portion size matters if you’re tracking macros. To make sure your measurements are consistent, use your Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale — it gives precise readings whether you’re weighing peanut butter, sugar, or flour alternatives. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have allergies or nutrition-specific goals.
These bars aren’t just about eating something sweet — they’re about celebrating how simple, homemade food can still taste rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Serving Suggestions & FAQs — Because Cookie Bars Deserve a Little Spotlight
These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are the kind of dessert that disappears as soon as they hit the table. They’re chewy, rich, and satisfyingly sweet — perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). Whether you’re baking for a casual get-together, a cozy night in, or just a craving that won’t wait, here’s how to serve them up in style.
Serving Ideas
1. Warm and Melty: Pop a square in the microwave for 10 seconds, then top with a scoop of vanilla or Cottage Cheese Ice Cream for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth combo.
2. Dessert Board Treat: Slice into mini squares and arrange them with fresh berries, dark chocolate, and nuts — a simple dessert board that looks elegant but takes minutes.
3. Lunchbox Boost: Wrap individually and toss one into your bag for a mid-day treat. These bars hold up beautifully without refrigeration.
4. Frozen Snack Hack: Freeze them in portions, then enjoy chilled — they turn dense and fudgy like a protein-packed candy bar.
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for a firmer texture.
- Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw on the counter before serving.
You can even crumble them over Greek yogurt or oatmeal for a quick, sweet breakfast boost.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cookie Bars
How do you keep peanut butter cookie bars soft and chewy?
The key is not to overbake. Remove them when the edges look golden and the center still looks slightly underdone. They’ll finish setting as they cool, keeping that soft, chewy texture.
Can I make these cookie bars without eggs or flour?
Absolutely. They’re already flourless, and you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water). The bars will be a bit softer but still delicious.
What kind of peanut butter works best for baking?
Creamy, natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) gives the best results. Avoid brands with added oils or sugar — they can make the texture greasy or overly dense.
Are peanut butter cookie bars healthy or high in protein?
They’re a balanced dessert with about 6 grams of protein per bar, thanks to the peanut butter. They’re gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free too. For a higher-protein twist, you can mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and adjust the sugar slightly.
Can I freeze peanut butter cookie bars for later?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap each bar individually in parchment or plastic wrap. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. They thaw perfectly in about 30 minutes.
Recommended Products
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs Set – Non-slip, heat-safe tongs for easy tray handling and serving. You can check full details and available colors using the link below.
- Vailnd 8-Inch Air Fryer Paper Liners – Unbleached, nonstick parchment liners that simplify cleanup and prevent sticking. Perfect for small baking pans too.
- Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale – Compact, accurate digital scale for precise ingredient measurement. You can see all specs and color options using the link below.
Sophie’s Closing Notes
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from baking something so simple yet so comforting. These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars remind me that homemade desserts don’t need to be complicated to be memorable — just honest, delicious, and made with love.
Make It Yours.
