Irresistible Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars have become my family’s favorite weekend treat! These delightful bars combine the perfect balance of chewy cookie texture with the colorful crunch of Reese’s Pieces candy. As someone who’s experimented with countless Reese’s Pieces Cookies recipes, I can confidently say these cookie bars take the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter to new heights. They’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a cold glass of milk on a cozy evening at home.
Nutritional Benefits
While these treats are certainly indulgent, they do offer some nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | Energy source |
| Protein | 5g | Muscle maintenance |
| Carbohydrates | 42g | Primary energy source |
| Fat | 16g | Flavor and satiety |
| Iron | 1.2mg | Supports blood health |
| Calcium | 40mg | Bone health |
The peanut butter in these cookie bars provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and some protein, while the eggs contribute essential amino acids.
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups all-purpose flour | Structure | 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, whole wheat flour |
| 1 teaspoon baking soda | Leavening | 1 teaspoon baking powder |
| 1/2 teaspoon salt | Flavor enhancer | Sea salt, kosher salt |
| 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened | Moisture, texture | Coconut oil, margarine |
| 1 cup brown sugar, packed | Sweetness, moisture | Coconut sugar, dark brown sugar |
| 1/2 cup granulated sugar | Sweetness, texture | Raw sugar, maple sugar |
| 2 large eggs | Structure, binding | Flax eggs (for vegan option) |
| 1 tablespoon vanilla extract | Flavor | Almond extract, maple extract |
| 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter | Flavor, moisture | Almond butter, sunflower seed butter |
| 1 1/2 cups Reese’s Pieces | Texture, flavor | M&Ms, chocolate chips |
| 1/2 cup chocolate chips | Richness, flavor | White chocolate chips, peanut butter chips |
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
– Mixing bowls (large and medium)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rubber spatula
– Cooling rack
– Sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use your electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Mix in the peanut butter until well combined.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix.
6. Fold in candy: Gently fold in 1 cup of the Reese’s Pieces and all of the chocolate chips, saving the remaining 1/2 cup of Reese’s Pieces for the top.
7. Transfer to pan: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining Reese’s Pieces on top, gently pressing them into the surface.
8. Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
9. Cool completely: Allow the Irresistible Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and cutting into squares. This patience will reward you with clean cuts and perfectly set Reese’s Pieces Cookies that hold their shape.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– For chewier bars: Slightly underbake by removing from the oven when the center still looks a bit underdone.
– For more even baking: Rotate your pan halfway through the baking time.
– Prevent overmixing: Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated to avoid tough cookie bars.
– Easy removal: The parchment paper handles make lifting the entire slab of cookies out of the pan effortless.
– Clean cuts: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for professional-looking bars.
– Temperature tip: Room temperature ingredients (especially butter and eggs) mix more evenly.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Counter storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
– Refrigerator: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 10 days.
– Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
– Make ahead: The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
– Thawing: Allow frozen bars to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars deliver everything you want in a dessert – the perfect balance of chewy and crispy textures, rich peanut butter flavor, and the colorful pop of Reese’s Pieces Cookies throughout. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility – it’s fancy enough for special occasions but simple enough for weeknight baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookie bars are virtually foolproof and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries them. Don’t forget to check out my Homemade Reese’s Eggs for another delicious peanut butter treat!
FAQ
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and use two 9×13 pans or one large sheet pan, adjusting baking time as needed.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Why did my cookie bars come out dry?
Overbaking is the most common culprit. Remember that they continue to set as they cool, so it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra texture element to your bars.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden brown and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Try adding chopped peanuts, pretzels, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combination.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Irresistible Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars.
